You Won't Believe What Happens When Anthony Edwards Faces Off Against the Nuggets Tonight!

DENVER — In a significant turn of events for the Minnesota Timberwolves, guard Anthony Edwards has been cleared to play in Saturday's Game 1 against the Denver Nuggets. This comes after a season marked by injuries that limited Edwards to just 61 games, a notable decrease from his usual durability.

Before the game, Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch remained tight-lipped about Edwards' status, having previously listed him as questionable due to ongoing maintenance for a right knee injury. However, after warming up successfully, the Timberwolves confirmed that Edwards would be available for the crucial first-round playoff matchup.

For context, Edwards played in just two of Minnesota’s last seven regular-season games and three of their last 14 as he dealt with various injuries throughout the season, including issues with his back, hamstring, foot, and shoulder. Yet, it has been the right knee that has caused the most concern, requiring him to take regular absences as the season progressed.

Finch: Edwards ‘looks good, feels good’

Finch, who has coached Edwards for his entire six-year career, noted that this season has been especially challenging for the young guard. "This is the first year I've seen Edwards struggle with an injury," Finch remarked. "I just look for the brightness in his smile. When he’s out there having fun, he knows he’s got the confidence in his game and in his body, which I think he’s always had." Finch added that he noticed a shift in Edwards’ demeanor, saying, "This is the first year I’ve ever seen anything different, where he’s been frustrated, but not feeling 100%."

Despite the setbacks, Finch expressed optimism, stating, "He looks good and feels good right now. It’s just about getting him in the rhythm of the game." This is particularly important as the Timberwolves face off against the third-seeded Nuggets, who finished the regular season with a record of 54-28.

Although Edwards has been cleared to play, he will not be eligible for any awards during the 2026 season due to a challenge he filed against the NBA's 65-game requirement for awards consideration. Prior to this season, Edwards had never played in fewer than 72 games.

Finch emphasized Edwards' previously impressive durability, commenting, "He’s been incredibly durable. He loves to play. I thought it was a shame that he didn’t win his appeal as well, just given the history of playing so many games. He’s available always to play.”

This season, Edwards has had a breakout year, averaging a career-high of 28.8 points, along with 5 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. His shooting has also improved, with a 40% success rate on 514 three-point attempts. Against the Nuggets this season, he averaged 30.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5 assists over three games, although he struggled with his three-point shooting at just 26% on 31 attempts.

The Timberwolves finished the regular season with a respectable 49-33 record, securing the sixth seed in the tightly contested Western Conference. As they prepare for what promises to be a competitive playoff series against the Nuggets, the return of Edwards could be pivotal for the team's chances. Fans will be watching closely to see how he performs after a challenging stretch of injuries, hoping to witness the dynamic play that he’s known for.