Anthony Edwards can further 'legend killer' reputation against Lakers

Budding superstar Anthony Edwards announced his arrival in last year's playoffs when he ousted Kevin Durant and Nikola Jokic en route to the Western Conference Finals.

And what an emphatic coming-out party it was. He trash-talked Durant after sweeping the Suns in the first round and followed it up by stunning Jokic in a Game 7 after his team trailed by 20 points.

This year, Edwards will get the chance to crush another legend's hopes and dreams. 

LeBron James, 40, enters the playoffs with home-court advantage for the first time as a Laker, and possibly his last shot at capturing a fifth championship. Many analysts believe Luka Doncic is the most talented running mate James has ever had in a playoff run, and the two maestros have the requisite role players to hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy.

If Edwards were to knock out James and Doncic in the first round, he'd further his reputation as the new "Legend Killer" of the NBA. And Lakers head coach JJ Redick knows his staff will have their hands full trying to stop the 23-year-old star.

"It's a very difficult opponent," Redick said of facing Minnesota in the first round. "They've played as well as anyone lately, and I believe they're one of four teams in the top 10 in offense and defense. So, they present a lot of problems."

Edwards didn't have his best showing against the Lakers in the regular season, averaging 19.0 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists in four games against the West rivals. However, he averaged 29.0 points in his last 15 games of the regular season, leading his team to an 11-4 record. He's in prime form entering the postseason.

By sending the Lakers packing, Edwards will cement himself as the NBA's biggest villain — or hero, depending on who you ask.