"He reminds me of a young me" - Dominique Wilkins reflects on Anthony Edwards and Jaylen Brown comparisons
Dominique Wilkins, one of the most talented and highly decorated athletes in NBA history, has given his take on Antony Edwards and Jaylen Brown comparisons.
Wilkins is one of the most prolific scorers and explosive finishers in league history. His ability led to him earning the nickname "Human Highlight Film," and he won the Slam Dunk Contest twice (1985 and 1990).
However, Wilkins is more than just a great finisher and fabulous dunker. He was an efficient scorer and a reliable rebounder. Int his 16-year NBA career, he shot 46% and grabbed 6.7 rebounds also had a knack for forcing turnovers, tallying 1,378 career steals.
In other words, Dominique Wilkins is an NBA great, and just like with other legends, comparisons are often drawn between him and modern-day stars. Two players who have been compared to Wilkins are Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics.
In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda, the two-time Slam Dunk champion said about the comparisons:
"There are some similarities in parts of their game. You see how explosive Anthony Edwards is. He reminds me of a ‘young me.’ I really love this kid.
"Of course, he went to Georgia, so I got to have his back (laughs). Most importantly, he has an explosive game. He can do so many things other than just dunk. He can score on the offense side.
Wilkins also hailed Brown.
"Jaylen Brown, as far as size and ability, there are some similarities there."
To be compared with someone like Dominique Wilkins is certainly an honor. However, for Wilkins to acknowledge and even agree with his comparison means he sees something special in both Anthony Edwards and Jaylen Brown.
Also Read: "He said 'Yeah, yeah, you won'": Dominique Wilkins on Michael Jordan conceding 1988 Dunk Contest, Kevin Durant's Achilles tear and more (Exclusive).
Looking back at Dominique Wilkins' stellar NBA career
Dominique Wilkins entered the NBA in 1982 when he was selected with the third overall pick by the Utah Jazz. However, he didn't play for them and was traded to the Atlanta Hawks, where he would spend 11 and a half seasons (1982-1994).
Wilkins earned plenty of personal accolades with the Hawks, including the scoring title in 1986 (30.3 points per game). He was also be a part of the All-Star team from 1986-1994. The Atlanta Hawks honored him by retiring his No. 21 jersey when he called it a day.
He would go on to play for the LA Clippers after the Hawks traded him. Afterward, Wilkins also played one season apiece for the Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs and the Orlando Magic.
Dominique Wilkins ended his career with 26,668 career points and is one of the players on the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team.