The Minnesota Timberwolves received a late boost ahead of their matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, upgrading Anthony Edwards to available after previously listing him as questionable.
Edwards had been dealing with a right knee issue along with an illness that forced him to miss Thursday’s game against the Detroit Pistons.
The change in status signals a positive step for Minnesota as it looks to maintain its position in the Western Conference playoff race.
Head coach Chris Finch said after the game that Edwards’ illness was the primary reason he did not play.
Edwards Remains Day-to-Day for Timberwolves
Edwards had also been listed as questionable before Thursday’s game, before ultimately being ruled out.
The All-Star guard recently returned from a six-game absence caused by the same knee injury, scoring 17 points in 23 minutes in a win over the Dallas Mavericks on March 30 in his first game back.
His availability on Friday suggests the issue has not worsened, though the Timberwolves are likely to continue monitoring his workload.
Awards Outlook Already Impacted
Despite returning to action, Edwards is no longer eligible for NBA postseason awards due to the league’s 65-game requirement.
He has appeared in 59 games this season, leaving him short of the threshold even if he plays the remainder of Minnesota’s schedule.
Still, his impact on the floor remains critical for the Timberwolves as they push toward the postseason.
The 24-year-old is averaging a career-high 29.3 points per game.
He has led the Timberwolves in scoring and taken on increased playmaking responsibilities this season. He has also been one of Minnesota’s primary options in late-game situations during close contests.
Timberwolves Life Without Edwards
Minnesota was without its leading scorer against Detroit and was unable to close out the game late.
Julius Randle led the Timberwolves with 27 points, while Ayo Dosunmu and Naz Reid each added 19. Mike Conley scored all 14 of his points in the first half.
The Pistons used an 11-0 run in the fourth quarter to secure the win.
Edwards’ absence was notable as Minnesota attempted to maintain its position in the Western Conference standings.
The Timberwolves are 10-7 this season without Edwards.
76ers Could Have Joel Embiid Available
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers could have a key player available.
Star center Joel Embiid has been upgraded to probable after initially being listed as doubtful and sitting out Wednesday’s 153-131 win over the Washington Wizards.
The updated status increases the likelihood that Philadelphia will have its leading scorer available against a Minnesota team monitoring Edwards’ condition.
Looking Ahead to 76ers Matchup
Minnesota now turns its attention to Friday’s matchup against Philadelphia, with its franchise star back.
Edwards has averaged 24.9 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 11 career games against Philadelphia.
Minnesota has six games remaining and trails the Houston Rockets by one game for the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference.
It is unclear if Edwards will be under a minutes restriction as the Timberwolves balance short-term needs with long-term considerations.
His availability remains a key factor as Minnesota approaches the final stretch of the regular season, particularly with playoff positioning still in play.
UPDATE: Timberwolves Make Major Anthony Edwards Announcement Ahead of 76ers Game