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MINNEAPOLIS, 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)

The Minnesota Timberwolves faced a major scare in Game 4 after star guard Anthony Edwards exited with an apparent left knee injury following an awkward fall against the Denver Nuggets.

Edwards went down during the second quarter after appearing to hyperextend his left knee while contesting a shot at the rim. The injury occurred with 2:42 remaining in the first half, a critical moment in a tightly contested game. According to Dane Moore of The Dane Moore NBA Podcast, Edwards required assistance as he made his way back to the locker room and was immediately ruled questionable to return.

Before exiting, Edwards had points and three rebounds in 17 minutes, serving as a steady presence early in the game. At halftime, Minnesota trailed Denver 54-50, underscoring how critical his availability could be down the stretch.

Doctors Identify Concerning Hyperextension Mechanism

Shortly after the play, sports medicine physician Dr. Evan Jeffries weighed in on X, outlining the range of possible outcomes tied to the injury.

“This [is] a hyperextension mechanism for Anthony Edwards. What we are concerned for — worst case scenario: ACL tear. Best case scenario: bone bruise/joint capsule injury,” Jeffries wrote.

Hyperextension injuries occur when the knee bends beyond its normal range, placing extreme stress on key ligaments—especially the ACL. In high-speed, in-game situations like Edwards’ fall, that mechanism can be particularly dangerous.

Wide Range of Outcomes Creates Immediate Uncertainty

The initial outlook leaves a wide spectrum of possibilities for Minnesota’s franchise star.

In a best-case scenario, Edwards could be dealing with a bone bruise or joint capsule injury—conditions that, while painful, may allow for a quicker recovery depending on swelling and stability.

However, the worst-case scenario—an ACL tear—would be a devastating development, likely ending Edwards’ postseason and significantly impacting the Timberwolves’ long-term outlook.

Timberwolves Facing Mounting Injury Concerns

The timing of Edwards’ injury adds to what has already become a troubling night for Minnesota. Earlier in the game, teammate Donte DiVincenzo exited with a non-contact lower leg injury that doctors feared could involve the Achilles.

If both injuries prove serious, the Timberwolves could be facing a dramatically altered rotation in the middle of a high-stakes playoff series.

Edwards has been the centerpiece of Minnesota’s offense and one of the league’s most dynamic postseason performers, making any extended absence a massive blow.

Awaiting Further Evaluation

The Timberwolves are expected to conduct further medical evaluation, including imaging, to determine the severity of Edwards’ injury. Knee injuries often require scans to confirm whether ligament damage is present.

For now, Edwards’ status remains uncertain—but the early signs and medical reaction suggest Minnesota could be bracing for a potentially serious outcome.