Anthony Edwards is expected to miss the start of Minnesota's second-round series but could return by Games 3 or 4.
Anthony Edwards will not start the Minnesota Timberwolves' second-round matchup with the San Antonio Spurs due to a bone bruise on his left knee, which hyperextended during Game 4 of the first round. He participated in a light on-court session on Saturday and followed it with another workout on Sunday before traveling with the team to San Antonio.
The Timberwolves are being careful with Edwards as he continues to manage persistent inflammation in his right knee that has lasted about a month. Despite their caution, team officials note Edwards has a history of quick recoveries and has been pushing hard to return given the urgency of the playoff race.
On Sunday morning, Edwards posted a YouTube video showing clips of himself running on an underwater treadmill, along with an interview from David Hines, the Timberwolves' VP of medical performance. Hines stated in the video that Edwards' projected timeline for return is one to two weeks. Edwards first injured his left knee on April 25 while attempting a block, two Saturdays prior to the Spurs series.
Games 3 and 4 of the series are scheduled for this Friday night and the following Sunday night, placing them just past the two-week window from his injury.
David Hines also explained in the video that Edwards' return timeline will depend on how he meets specific metrics for pain management, mobility, and functional strength over the next couple of weeks. The Timberwolves advanced to the second round after winning Game 6 at home against the Denver Nuggets in the first round.
Minnesota enters the series against the Spurs, who finished the regular season with 62 wins, as significant underdogs.
Anthony Edwards' potential return timing has become a key storyline as the Timberwolves look to improve their chances against the Spurs. The team's cautious approach reflects a balance between player health and competitive urgency in the playoffs. Edwards' aggressive recovery efforts highlight his determination to contribute despite the challenges. His absence at the start of the series means the Timberwolves will need to rely on other players in the early games before he potentially rejoins the lineup.