When Anthony Edwards initially went down with his injury during round one, most expected him to return deep into the second round at the earliest. To everybody’s surprise, Edwards was ready for Game 1 against the San Antonio Spurs.
Dealing with a knee injury, the Timberwolves didn’t want to push their guard too far. Therefore, Edwards’ minutes were in check, as he served an unusual bench role.
GettyMINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – APRIL 25: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts to an apparent injury in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets of Game Four of the First Round of the 2026 NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Target Center on April 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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 David Berding/Getty Images)
On Wednesday night, Edwards continued his bench role in Game 2. For the second game in a row, he played under 26 minutes of action.
Following the Timberwolves’ blowout loss, Edwards addressed the state of his health and discussed whether he’s ready to increase his minutes and rejoin the starting five.
Anthony Edwards Addresses His Limited Role
GettyMINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – APRIL 25: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves celebrates his three-point basket against the Denver Nuggets in the first quarter of Game Four of the First Round of the 2026 NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Target Center on April 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
When it comes to his knee and overall health, Edwards makes it clear he isn’t dealing with any setbacks.
“Not really,” he said in response to a question about if he is still bothered. “I feel good.”
As far as the bench role goes: “That’s not up to me. Yeah, if it’s required—whatever is required, I’m going to do it,” Edwards explained.
The Timberwolves Fall Way Short In Game 2
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 30: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts in the final seconds of their 127-113 loss to the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on October 30, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Following an impressive series against the Denver Nuggets, Edwards returned to the court to debut for Game 1 after missing the final two games of the round-one series.
In the first outing, Edwards checked off the bench for 25 minutes. The star guard had an efficient night on the offensive end, making 61.5% of his shots, going 2-3 from deep. The star guard produced 18 points, while dishing out three assists and coming down with three rebounds.
The Timberwolves stole Game 1 with a 104-102 victory.
Wednesday’s action took a different turn. Edwards checked in for 24 minutes. He went just 38.5% from the field to score 12 points. Edwards also had three rebounds and turned the ball over four times. The Timberwolves didn’t come close to winning, suffering their worst loss of the postseason with a score of 133-95.
The Timberwolves will return home for Game 3, which takes place on Friday, May 8, at 9:30 PM ET. It’s unclear what Edwards’ role will look like then.