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Anthony Edwards reacts during a Timberwolves game as his injury remains a concern before Game 4.
The Minnesota Timberwolves received encouraging news on Anthony Edwards ahead of a pivotal Game 4 — but his situation remains far from fully resolved.
Edwards was not listed on the injury report for Saturday’s matchup against the Denver Nuggets, signaling his availability after a brief scare in Game 3. Still, Timberwolves coach Chris Finch made it clear the All-Star guard continues to manage an ongoing issue.
“I think it’s, you know, all the work that’s been done there has been pointing in the right direction,” Finch said before Game 4. “Certainly, great job by the medical staff and Anthony navigating this, getting confidence in what the new reality feels like.”
Finch added that while Edwards has made progress, the injury remains something the team must carefully monitor.
“It’s still an ongoing management situation until he’s able to get real rest,” Finch said. “But I think he’s way more comfortable with what it feels like after having pushed it and played high-level basketball on it.”
Anthony Edwards is off the injury report for Game 4, after being listed as questionable with his knee inflammation injury for Game 1-3.
Finch was asked before the game if that is a positive sign for the way the injury is trending.
“It’s still an ongoing management situation
Edwards had previously been listed as questionable due to right knee management over the first three games of the series. His removal from the Game 4 injury report marks a positive step forward as Minnesota looks to build on its 2-1 series lead.
The Timberwolves’ star guard briefly exited to the locker room in the fourth quarter of Thursday’s Game 3 win after appearing to come up limping on a play. He did not return, though Minnesota comfortably closed out a 113-96 victory.
Despite the scare, Edwards is expected to play in Game 4.
Through three first-round games, he has averaged 23.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.7 blocks in 34.0 minutes per contest.
Minnesota has surged ahead in the series behind a dominant defensive effort, particularly in Game 3.
Jaden McDaniels led the way with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Ayo Dosunmu added 25 points and nine assists off the bench. Donte DiVincenzo contributed 15 points and four steals as the Timberwolves overwhelmed Denver on both ends.
The Timberwolves built a 27-point lead in the third quarter and held the Nuggets to just 11 points in the first quarter — a postseason franchise record for fewest points allowed in an opening period.
They also dominated the paint, outscoring Denver 68-34.
Minnesota’s defensive pressure has disrupted Denver’s rhythm throughout the series.
Three-time MVP Nikola Jokic finished with 27 points and 15 rebounds in Game 3 but struggled with efficiency, shooting just 7-for-26 from the field and committing four turnovers.
Rudy Gobert anchored the defensive effort once again, continuing his strong play against Jokic.
“He’s the greatest offensive player I’ve guarded in my whole career,” Gobert said. “Just trying to enjoy the challenge.”
The Timberwolves have also dictated tempo, preventing the Nuggets from settling into their half-court offense.
“They’re kind of pushing the pace, playing faster,” Jokic said. “Don’t let us set our defense, and then just driving the ball and trying to be aggressive.”
Even as Minnesota thrives defensively, Edwards remains central to its championship hopes.
He finished Game 3 with 17 points, five rebounds and three assists while shooting 40% from the field before exiting late.
The Timberwolves leaned on their depth to secure the win, but Edwards’ ability to stay on the floor could determine how far Minnesota can advance.
Finch emphasized that while Edwards is trending in the right direction, the team will continue to manage his workload carefully.
For now, the Timberwolves appear to have their star available — but with the series intensifying, Edwards’ health will remain one of the most important storylines moving forward.
Alder Almo is a veteran NBA reporter for Heavy.com, covering the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. He brings over 20 years of experience across local and international media, including broadcast, print and digital. He previously covered the Knicks for Empire Sports Media and the NBA for Off the Glass. Originally from the Philippines, he is now based in Jersey City, New Jersey. More about Alder Almo
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