Comparing Anthony Edwards, Michael Jordan, And Dwyane Wade After They Won Their First Playoff Series

Anthony Edwards has truly made a splash this playoff season, taking the NBA by storm with his standout performance in sweeping the Phoenix Suns. This has naturally sparked comparisons with some of the legends of the game like Michael Jordan and Dwyane Wade. With Edwards making waves in just his third playoff appearance, it's the perfect time to take a closer look at how his first big playoff win stacks up against the early successes of Wade and Jordan. 

Jordan first made his playoff mark in 1988 with the Bulls by taking down the Cavaliers, though they got knocked out in the next round by the Pistons. Wade had a similar breakout in his rookie year, 2004, dragging the Heat past the Hornets in a grueling seven-game series before they too fell in the semifinals against the Pacers.

Points Per Game

1. Michael Jordan - 45.2 PPG (3 points)

2. Anthony Edwards - 31.0 PPG (2 points)

3. Dwyane Wade - 15.4 PPG (1 point)

In their respective first playoff series, the scoring prowess of each player was on full display, with Michael Jordan leading the pack by a significant margin. Jordan's 45.2 points per game in the 1988 playoffs remain one of the most astounding scoring feats in NBA history, showcasing his ability to dominate offensively under the bright lights of the postseason.

Anthony Edwards also put up impressive numbers with 31.0 points per game, signaling his arrival as a major playoff performer. For a player still early in his career, Edwards' scoring ability in high-pressure games speaks volumes about his potential and establishes him as a key figure for the Timberwolves.

Dwyane Wade, while trailing behind Jordan and Edwards in scoring, still made a notable impact with 15.4 points per game during his rookie season in 2004. Wade's performance was a critical component in advancing his team through the playoffs, highlighting his effectiveness even as a newcomer to the postseason stage.

Rebounds Per Game

1. Anthony Edwards - 8.0 RPG (3 points)

2. Michael Jordan - 5.4 RPG (2 points)

3. Dwyane Wade - 4.0 RPG (1 point)

Anthony Edwards isn't just about scoring; he's got game under the boards too. Leading with 8.0 rebounds per game, Edwards shows he can mix it up in the paint, grabbing boards alongside the bigs. For a guy who's primarily known for his sharpshooting and explosive drives, seeing him lead in rebounds is pretty cool and speaks volumes about his hustle and all-around skills.

Michael Jordan, as usual, did a bit of everything, snagging 5.4 rebounds per game. Even when he was lighting up the scoreboard, MJ made sure to help out on the glass, proving yet again why he's considered one of the game's greatest all-around players.

Dwyane Wade, even as a rookie, knew how to contribute wherever he could, pulling down a decent 4.0 rebounds a game. It wasn't just about scoring for Wade; it was about doing whatever his team needed to win, and grabbing those rebounds was part of it.

Assists Per Game

1. Anthony Edwards - 6.3 APG (3 points)

2. Dwyane Wade - 5.6 APG (2 points)

3. Michael Jordan - 4.8 APG (1 point)

Anthony Edwards isn't just a scoring machine; he's also dishing out assists like a seasoned playmaker. Leading with 6.3 assists per game, Edwards shows he's got the vision and the willingness to get his teammates involved, making him a dual threat on the court. It's impressive to see a young star not only take charge of the scoring but also set up plays for his team.

Dwyane Wade, even in his rookie season, showed a knack for playmaking, averaging 5.6 assists per game. Wade's ability to find open teammates while also keeping defenses on their toes with his scoring threat was a key part of his early success and set the foundation for his future as a leader.

Michael Jordan, known more for his scoring prowess, still managed to rack up 4.8 assists per game. MJ always had the ability to distribute the ball effectively, showing that he could play the role of a facilitator when defenses keyed in on him.

Steals Per Game

1. Michael Jordan - 2.8 SPG (3 points)

2. Anthony Edwards - 2.0 SPG (2 points)

3. Dwyane Wade - 1.3 SPG (1 point)

Michael Jordan wasn't just an offensive nightmare; he was a terror on defense too. Leading the pack with 2.8 steals per game, Jordan's quick hands and incredible defensive instincts allowed him to disrupt opposing offenses and turn defense into offense in a flash. It's part of what made his playoff performances legendary.

Anthony Edwards shows up strong in this category too, snagging 2.0 steals per game. It's clear that Edwards isn't just hanging around on defense; he's actively making plays and showing off his athletic ability to read the game and make those crucial defensive stops.

Dwyane Wade, not to be outdone, also made his presence felt on the defensive end with 1.3 steals per game. Even as a rookie, Wade's ability to contribute defensively provided his team with extra possessions and helped set the tone for his all-around game.

Steals might not get as much glory as scoring, but they're a big part of what makes a player effective on both ends of the floor. These numbers just go to show that all three players were not only offensive powerhouses but also key defensive contributors in their playoff runs.

Blocks Per Game

1. Michael Jordan - 1.6 BPG (3 points)

2. Anthony Edwards - 0.8 BPG (2 points)

3. Dwyane Wade - 0.1 BPG (1 point)

Michael Jordan really did it all, and his ability to block shots was no exception. Topping this category with 1.6 blocks per game, MJ showcased his exceptional defensive skills and timing. It wasn't just his scoring that made him a nightmare for opponents; it was also his ability to deny them at the rim, adding another layer to his defensive prowess.

Anthony Edwards also steps up in this area, averaging 0.8 blocks per game. For a guard, that's pretty impressive and a testament to his athleticism and willingness to challenge opponents in the paint. Edwards' ability to contribute blocks shows he's not just playing perimeter defense; he's effectively helping out inside too.

Dwyane Wade, while known for his scoring and assists, contributed minimally in the blocks category with just 0.1 blocks per game. However, his overall defensive efforts were still vital to his team's success, even if blocks weren't a major part of his defensive stats.

Shooting Percentages

1. Michael Jordan - 55.9% FG, 0.0% 3P, 91.8% FT (3 points) 

2. Anthony Edwards - 51.2% FG, 43.8% 3P, 83.9% FT (2 points) 

3. Dwyane Wade - 42.4% FG, 50.0% 3P, 77.8% FT (1 point)

Michael Jordan leads in shooting efficiency, with a stellar 55.9% from the field and an outstanding 91.8% from the free-throw line during his iconic playoff series. These numbers not only reflect his scoring ability but also his knack for maintaining efficiency under pressure, which is crucial in the playoffs.

Anthony Edwards also shows impressive shooting stats, especially for a younger player in high-stakes games. Shooting over 51% from the field and nearly 44% from beyond the arc, along with a solid 83.9% from the line, Edwards demonstrates that he's not just taking shots, he's making them count. His ability to maintain such high percentages across the board highlights his potential as a reliable postseason scorer.

Dwyane Wade, while having lower overall shooting percentages, still managed to make half of his very few three-point attempts. His 42.4% field goal percentage and 77.8% free-throw percentage are decent, especially considering this was his playoff debut. Wade's numbers show room for growth, but they also reflect his determination to contribute significantly despite the pressure.

Player Efficiency Rating (PER)

1. Michael Jordan - 28.4 PER (3 points)

2. Anthony Edwards - 28.0 PER (2 points)

3. Dwyane Wade - 17.7 PER (1 point)

Michael Jordan tops this category with a PER of 28.4 during the 1988 first round, showcasing his high level of efficiency and overall dominance on the court. This rating is a testament to Jordan's ability to impact the game profoundly, contributing in scoring, assists, rebounds, and defensive plays.

Anthony Edwards closely follows with a PER of 28.0 in the 2024 playoffs. For a young player, maintaining such a high level of efficiency is remarkable and speaks volumes about his potential and capability to be a cornerstone player for his team. Edwards' performance indicates that he is not only productive but also highly effective during his time on the floor.

Dwyane Wade, with a PER of 17.7 during his rookie season in 2004, shows a solid start to his playoff career, though not as high as Jordan or Edwards. This still respectable figure reflects Wade's ability to contribute significantly across various aspects of the game, even as he was just beginning to find his footing in the NBA playoffs.

Playoff Success

T1. Michael Jordan - 1988 Eastern Conference Semifinals (3 points)

T1. Dwyane Wade - 2004 Eastern Conference Semifinals (3 points)

T1. Anthony Edwards - 2024 Western Conference Semifinals (3 points)

Michael Jordan's standout performance in the 1988 Eastern Conference Semifinals marks a defining moment in his early playoff career. His ability to control the game and deliver under pressure was a clear indicator of his future success, earning him a top spot in this ranking.

Dwyane Wade, in the 2004 Eastern Conference Semifinals, demonstrated exceptional leadership and skill as a rookie. His pivotal role in pushing the Heat through tough playoff battles showcases his early knack for stepping up when it matters most, placing him alongside Jordan in this category.

Anthony Edwards, matching his predecessors in reaching the Western Conference Semifinals in 2024, shows that he is on a trajectory similar to these NBA greats. While still in the midst of his playoff run, Edwards' performance so far has been impressive, warranting his inclusion at this level. His ability to lead and perform in crucial moments suggests a promising playoff future.

Total Games Won

1. Dwyane Wade - 6 Playoff Games Won (3 Points)

T2. Michael Jordan - 4 Playoff Games Won (2 points)

T2. Anthony Edwards - 4 Playoff Games Won (2 points)

Dwyane Wade kicked off his playoff career in 2004 by not just making a splash, but by making waves. He led the Miami Heat to a thrilling first-round victory over the New Orleans Hornets in a series that went the full seven games, and then they snagged a couple more wins in the semifinals against the Indiana Pacers. His six wins were a clear signal that Wade was a rookie to watch.

Michael Jordan, in the 1988 playoffs, powered the Chicago Bulls to overcome the Cleveland Cavaliers in a five-game series during the first round. They then managed to clinch a few more games against the Detroit Pistons in the semifinals before bowing out, totaling four wins. Jordan's early playoff run was a preview of the legendary performances that were yet to come.

Anthony Edwards, like Jordan, has also racked up four playoff wins so far in 2024, matching Jordan's record. Edwards led the Minnesota Timberwolves past the Phoenix Suns in a sweep, and they are still battling it out in the current semifinals. His performance has not just been about winning games but also about stepping up as a leader when it counts the most.

Who Had The Best Playoff Run?

1. Michael Jordan - 23 points

2. Anthony Edwards - 18 points

3. Dwyane Wade - 15 points

Michael Jordan emerges as the leader with a total of 23 points across all categories, reflecting his legendary status and remarkable performances during the playoffs. His dominance in scoring, defensive metrics, and efficiency showcases why he's often considered the greatest basketball player of all time.

Anthony Edwards follows with 18 points, demonstrating that he's on a trajectory that could see him become one of the greats of the game. His impressive performances in scoring, rebounding, and assisting highlight his potential and versatility as a young player.

Dwyane Wade, with 15 points, also showed exceptional skill and leadership during his rookie playoff run, setting the stage for his future success, including a championship and Finals MVP. 

This analysis not only highlights the individual excellence of each player during their respective playoff runs but also offers a comparative perspective on their impacts at similar stages of their careers.