Before the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves go head-to-head on Saturday afternoon for Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs, the star guard Anthony Edwards landed bad news from the league.
It was revealed that Edwards was one of three NBA stars to file an exception for the NBA’s 65-game minimum rule for awards eligibility.
In a joint statement released by the NBA and NBPA on Thursday, it was confirmed that Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic and Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham were approved. Edwards, on the other hand, was not.
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 17: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in action during the game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on January 17, 2025 in New York City. The Timberwolves won 116-99. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
“Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards, who played in 60 qualified games, filed an extraordinary circumstances challenge under the CBA, seeking award eligibility before an independent arbitrator. Edwards’ challenge was denied, and as a result, he is not eligible for annual awards for the 2025-2026 NBA regular season.” via the press release.
The Denver Nuggets Are Getting A Fueled Anthony Edwards
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – DECEMBER 29: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center on December 29, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Edwards is already one of the NBA’s most outspoken young competitors. He didn’t need added fuel to be motivated heading into the playoffs.
Yet, he still has great bulletin board material from the league, as he’ll inevitably miss all seasonal honors with his request denied.
This season, Edwards appeared in 61 games for the Timberwolves. He shot 48.9% from the field and 39.9% from three to average 28.8 points per game.
Along with his scoring, Edwards came down with 5.0 rebounds per game and produced 3.7 assists per game.
The Timberwolves finished the year with a 49-33 record. They placed sixth in the Western Conference.
Anthony Edwards’ History Against The Nuggets
GettyPORTLAND, OREGON – FEBRUARY 24: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts during the second quarter of the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center on February 24, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)
Edwards has faced the Nuggets 22 times throughout his career.
Since 2021, Edwards has averaged 24.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game when facing Denver. He holds a 12-10 record against the Nuggets during the regular season.
The Nuggets-Timberwolves showdown will begin on Saturday, April 18. The game tips off at 3:30 PM ET.