Six-time NBA All-Star DeMar DeRozan has responded to recent remarks by Anthony Edwards regarding past basketball players, particularly Michael Jordan. The Minnesota Timberwolves guard suggested that Jordan was the only player from previous eras who possessed genuine skill.
DeRozan, during his appearance on the Podcast P with Paul George, Presented by Wave Sports + Entertainment, offered a measured response to Edwards’ comments. He emphasized the importance of respecting players from all eras, acknowledging their contributions to the game.
“By far, but even some like that, we never would have made any statement like that,” the Sacramento Kings star stated.
DeRozan explained that although basketball has evolved, discrediting past players undermines the foundation they built.
“At the end of the day, I respect every OG who ever played this game. This game was built on a foundation of taking steps from wherever it came from,” he said.
Edwards’ remarks initially sparked discussion within the NBA community, with some agreeing and others disagreeing with his assessment. DeRozan was among those who felt compelled to defend the legacy of earlier generations.
He added, “I never discredit wherever the league was at 20 years ago, because it’s all about elevating.”
In his response, DeRozan praised the skill level of players from previous decades. He argued that past players were just as incredible and contributed to the development of today’s game.
“But if you look at it back then, those guys still were incredible. They still was,” he explained.
DeRozan stated that he would never make a statement discrediting the players who came before him. Edwards, known for his confidence and strong opinions, had singled out Jordan as the exception among past players.
DeRozan’s remarks align with the sentiments of other veteran and former players like Dominique Wilkins who value the history of the game. He stressed that the league’s growth relies on the contributions of players from all generations.