When it comes to hot takes, few deliver them better than ESPN’s own Stephen A. Smith. But during a heated debate with fellow analyst @greenranger14 on First Take Live, Stephen A. dropped a take that instantly sent NBA Twitter into a frenzy:
“In a potential Lakers-Wolves series, Anthony Edwards is more important than Luka Dončić will ever be to that matchup. And I’ll tell you why.”
At first glance, it seemed like a wild comparison—Luka Dončić, MVP candidate and one of the league’s most prolific scorers, being considered less important than a 22-year-old still carving out his legacy? But Stephen A., as always, had his reasons. And honestly? He may have a point.
Context Matters
Before anyone gets carried away, Stephen A. wasn’t downplaying Luka’s greatness. In fact, he clarified early in the segment:
“Luka is that dude. No one’s denying it. But when we’re talking Lakers-Wolves, Luka ain’t in that series. It’s about matchups and impact. Anthony Edwards changes the entire tone of that series.”
And that’s where the logic clicks.
The Lakers and Timberwolves could very well clash in a brutal playoff series this year, and Edwards is front and center for Minnesota. His performance—his fire, his energy, his leadership—will determine how far the Wolves go. Luka, as brilliant as he is, simply isn’t in that conversation unless Dallas finds itself facing L.A. later on.
So when Stephen A. says Edwards is more important than Luka in that specific matchup, he’s making a matchup-based argument—not ranking their overall skill levels.
The Edwards Effect
Anthony Edwards has become the heartbeat of the Timberwolves. His explosive scoring, fearless mentality, and improved defense have turned him into one of the NBA’s fastest-rising stars. Against a team like the Lakers—veteran-heavy, with slower perimeter defenders—Edwards is a nightmare matchup.
As Stephen A. put it:
“LeBron is 39. AD is elite defensively, but he’s not chasing Ant around the perimeter. Who’s guarding that man? D-Lo? Reaves? Please.”
Edwards averaged 25+ points per game this season while improving as a passer and defender. He’s also shown a flair for big moments—exactly what Minnesota will need against a battle-tested team like the Lakers. His ability to take over a game could tilt the series, especially if it goes the distance.
Luka’s Greatness, But From a Distance
Meanwhile, Luka Dončić has had a phenomenal season, arguably the best of his career. He’s averaged near triple-doubles, led Dallas to a strong finish, and continues to prove he’s one of the top 5 players in the league. No one is denying his impact.
But again, this isn’t about MVP voting—it’s about the Lakers-Wolves matchup specifically.
“Luka is a genius,” Stephen A. said. “But he’s not playing the Lakers right now. Ant is. And he’s the key to Minnesota getting past them. Simple.”
@greenranger14 Claps Back
Of course, @greenranger14 wasn’t having it. He argued that Luka’s overall impact on the league dwarfs Edwards’ and that Luka would be the most important player in any matchup—period.
“If you’re telling me there’s one guy I want in a playoff game, I’m taking Luka over Ant 10 times outta 10. Luka has proven it more.”
And sure, Luka’s resume is deeper—he’s already delivered all-time playoff performances, while Edwards is still building his postseason legacy. But in the here and now, with the Lakers-Wolves clash looming, the focus is narrow. The Wolves need everything from Edwards, and he knows it.
The Bottom Line
Stephen A.’s take isn’t as wild as it sounds when you zoom in. He’s not comparing legacies. He’s not saying Ant is better than Luka overall.
He’s saying that if the Lakers are facing the Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards becomes the most important player in that series. His performance will either elevate the Wolves or doom them. He’s their engine, their shot creator, and their emotional leader.
And as Stephen A. closed the segment with a grin:
“I love Luka. But in this series? It’s Ant-Man time.”
