'It's bullsh--t': Anthony Edwards won't stand for criticism of 'big brother' Kevin Durant

Who in the NBA brings out the best in you? 

As Kevin Durant stood by his locker, he paused, taking a few moments to reflect.

There's LeBron James, who inspired Durant to win two Finals MVPs in 2017 and 2018 with Golden State en route to his only championships. Or Stephen Curry, his former Warriors teammate, who's often his competition when pundits debate the best scorer in the league. 

Instead, the Phoenix Suns superstar went in a completely different direction. 

"I'd say Ant," Durant told FOX Sports of Minnesota Timberwolves superstar Anthony Edwards. "Just because of his energy every day. The pace that he plays at. The pace that he works out at. The s--- that he talks. He gives everybody energy."

Edwards is only 23 years old. He hasn't even made an NBA Finals appearance, while James and Curry have won a combined eight championships. But the charismatic star, who's often compared to a young Michael Jordan, wasn't surprised by Durant's response. 

"He telling the truth," Edwards told FOX Sports, flashing a wide grin. "That's like my big brother, man. I love KD. He's my favorite player of all time, so I appreciate that, for sure."

That was more than just a heartwarming show of respect between a young hotshot and his longtime idol. More so, it was increasing evidence of a generational shift in the way the league's biggest superstars view the up-and-comers, with them supporting and mentoring those labeled as "next," instead of wanting them to first earn their stripes. 

Just ask Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who was at the helm of Team USA as Durant, Curry, and James embraced Edwards during their gold medal-winning run at the Olympic Games in Paris this past summer. 

That was notable for Kerr, who played alongside Michael