Get ready, Timberwolves fans—the star is back. Anthony Edwards has been officially cleared to play in Monday night's Western Conference semifinal opener against the San Antonio Spurs, a remarkable return just 10 days after hyperextending his left knee.
Initially, the 6-foot-4 All-Star guard was expected to sit out at least the first two games of the series in San Antonio. But Edwards, known for his explosive play and relentless drive, has accelerated his rehab to take the court in Game 1. "He's in," confirmed Minnesota head coach Chris Finch.
There is a catch, however. Finch noted that Edwards will be on a minutes restriction, a prudent move given the severity of the injury. Edwards sustained a bone bruise along with the hyperextension during Game 4 of the Timberwolves' first-round series against Denver on April 25. He was upgraded to questionable on Sunday after participating in team activities Saturday, and following a full morning shootaround and pre-game workouts Monday, he got the green light.
This is a massive boost for Minnesota, which also lost guard Donte DiVincenzo to a torn right Achilles in that same Game 4. Despite the setbacks, the Timberwolves rallied to win the next two games against the Nuggets and advance. Edwards, who missed Game 6 while receiving treatment, has been a focal point all season, averaging 28.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 61 regular-season games.
His track record against the Spurs is particularly impressive. In three meetings this season, Edwards torched San Antonio for an average of 36.7 points, 4.0 assists, and 3.0 rebounds. The Timberwolves went 2-1 against the Spurs in the regular season, but they'll face a formidable challenge in Victor Wembanyama.
The reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Wembanyama missed the first regular-season matchup with a calf strain but made his presence felt in two games against Minnesota. He averaged 34 points and 8.0 rebounds, including a 39-point outburst in a 126-123 Spurs victory on January 17—the last time these teams met.
With Edwards back in the lineup and Wembanyama ready to counter, this series opener promises high-octane drama. For Timberwolves fans, seeing their star in action—even on a minutes restriction—is a win in itself.