Daniel Artest’s Perspective on Anthony Edwards: The Next ‘Jordan’ in His Own Right
In the ever-evolving world of basketball, discussions about the next Michael Jordan often spark intense debates and speculation. Daniel Artest, a basketball enthusiast known for his insightful perspectives, recently delved into the conversation about Anthony Edwards and the elusive “next Jordan” tag in a podcast that ignited considerable interest and contemplation within the basketball community.
Artest’s viewpoint centers on Edwards embodying traits reminiscent of Jordan’s style, not in the context of surpassing Jordan’s unparalleled legacy but rather in the essence of the game and its captivating allure. Artest shared on Instagram Live, “It’s strictly just from a game versus the game type of thing.” He highlights Edwards’ approach to the game, his relentless attitude, and the swagger reminiscent of a young Jordan, drawing parallels between their playing styles and mindset.
The former association of certain players with the “next Jordan” tag—such as Vince Carter or Kobe Bryant until they forged their distinct paths—illustrates the rarity of such comparisons. Artest emphasizes that it’s been since the late ’90s that someone was seen as the potential successor to Jordan in terms of playing style and impact on the court.
Artest makes a clear distinction, asserting that likening Edwards to Jordan isn’t about predicting championships or determining the greatest player of all time. Rather, it’s about acknowledging Edwards’ playing approach, tenacity, and demeanor akin to Jordan’s during his early career. Artest admires Edwards’ fearlessness, citing instances where Edwards stood his ground against seasoned players like Jimmy Butler, showcasing his resilience and skill.
Artest is not the only former player who has dubbed Edwards the next Jordan. Former Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors guard Nick Young also agrees.
“The league is about to be Anthony Edwards. This is Anthony Edwards league now, the new MJ. That boy looks just like MJ out there,” said Young. “They should have gave it to Anthony Edwards. They would have never lost to Lithuania.” He also added, “Anthony Edwards is looking like a star.”
While acknowledging the vanity comparisons that arise, Artest underscores his focus on Edwards’ game rather than facial resemblances. He expresses confidence in Edwards’ potential to leave his mark on the game, believing it’s time for a player to embody the essence of the “next Jordan” in his unique way.
Artest’s admiration for Edwards shines through as he labels him as one of his favorite young players, second only to a personal favorite. He acknowledges Edwards’ skill set, determination, and the grit he displays on the court, foreseeing a special future for the talented player.
In conclusion, Daniel Artest’s assessment of Anthony Edwards as a player evoking echoes of Jordan in style and demeanor sheds light on the excitement and anticipation surrounding young talents in the NBA. Artest’s viewpoint adds depth to the ongoing discourse about basketball’s evolving landscape and the emergence of players who, while not aiming to replicate Jordan’s legacy, bring their own flair and intensity to the game.
As the NBA continues to witness the rise of promising talents like Anthony Edwards, discussions about the “next Jordan” will persist, keeping fans and analysts engaged in the captivating narrative of basketball’s evolution.
Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.
He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.
His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.
His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.
In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.
