Anthony Edwards vs. Luka Doncic: Elite Guards Clash in WCF

DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 07: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves controls the ball as Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks defends during the second half at American Airlines Center on January 07, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo : (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images))

Two of the best guards in the league will face each other tonight in the Western Conference Finals when Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks take on Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Doncic and Edwards are some of the brightest stars in the game. Both dazzled fans and media alike with their spectacular play and entertaining interviews. Now, they will battle it out for a shot at an NBA Finals berth.

RELATED ARTICLE: Timberwolves vs. Mavericks: WCF Matchup Between an Elite Offense and Defense

Tale of the Tape 

Last season, Luka Doncic played spectacularly for the Dallas Mavericks by averaging 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game while finishing third in MVP voting behind Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. 

He managed to carry over his excellent play into the postseason, posting 27.3 points, 9.7 rebounds and 9.1 assists per game in the playoffs; despite dealing with several different injuries.

At the same juncture, Anthony Edwards has experienced his best season as a pro this year, averaging 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game on 46% shooting from the field. 

He led the Timberwolves to one of their best records in the franchise's short history, totaling 56 wins in the regular season.

Edwards has been spectacular throughout the postseason, taking out the Kevin Durant led Suns and Nikola Jokic led Nuggets in the process of writing his legacy.

Both players have truly unique playstyles. Ant is more of a slasher who likes to get to the rim, while Luka looks to set his teammates up before getting his points through the mid-range.

Doncic's offensive game also relies less on his athleticism with his deadly stepbacks and other tricks to keep defenders at bay. Unlike Edwards' explosiveness in attacking the opposing teams.  

The Verdict

When just looking at stats, Luka Doncic takes the cake in proving to be the better all-around player. At the same time, one could argue that Edwards' impact on his team puts them over the hump.

The Timberwolves are a more defense-oriented club that do rely on Anthony Edwards to score.

While the Mavs have various offensive options in Kyrie Irving, who is a proven All-Star, Tim Hardaway Jr. as another notable scoring option, and even P.J. Washington, who has come alive in the postseason. 

READ MORE: Wolves vs Mavs: Schedule, Where to Watch; Who's the Underdog and Who's the X-Factor for Each Team?

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