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SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 13: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts after making a three-point shot against the Golden State Warriors in the second half at Chase Center on March 13, 2026 in San Francisco, California. 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 Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
The Minnesota Timberwolves are holding their breath. Anthony Edwards, the franchise’s brightest star and the engine of their playoff run, was helped off the court in Game 4 against the Denver Nuggets after suffering a left knee hyperextension.
Now, with Minnesota up 3-1 in the series, the question on everyone’s mind is simple: when can Ant come back?
The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski, the most plugged-in reporter covering the Minnesota Timberwolves, offered a candid look at where Edwards’ situation stands, and it’s a mix of uncertainty and optimism.
When asked about a potential return timeline, Krawczynski said:
“Too early to say with Edwards. Historically, he’s been a fast healer. He desperately wants to play. But everyone has to be smart with this. He’s the face of the franchise.”
Too early to say with Edwards. Historically, he's been a fast healer. He desperately wants to play. But everyone has to be smart with this. He's the face of the franchise. https://t.co/t9GgLXQ7P0
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) April 26, 2026
Those words carry weight. Edwards isn’t the type to sit on the sidelines when his team needs him. His competitiveness is legendary but so is the Timberwolves’ responsibility to protect their most valuable asset.
GettyAnthony Edwards Injury Timeline Still Unclear Despite Optimism
History is actually on Edwards’ side here. Throughout his NBA career, the 24-year-old has shown a remarkable ability to return from injury faster than expected. Earlier this season, he battled through right knee inflammation and patellofemoral pain syndrome, missing 11 of his team’s final 14 regular-season games, yet still returned to play meaningful playoff minutes.
Krawczynski himself noted that Edwards is “historically a fast healer,” a reputation that gives Minnesota reason to stay cautiously optimistic heading deeper into the postseason.
GettyAnthony Edwards faces injury battle
ESPN’s Shams Charania delivered the most significant update on Anthony Edwards’ condition, and while it isn’t all clear skies, it is far from the worst-case scenario:
“Just in: Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards has sustained a bone bruise and hyperextension in his left knee and is expected to miss multiple weeks, sources tell ESPN. Results showed Edwards avoided any ligament damage, but he will now miss time.”
No ligament damage is the headline here. Edwards avoided an ACL or PCL tear. The nightmare outcome that initially had the basketball world terrified. The diagnosis of a bone bruise and hyperextension means his 2025-26 playoff run isn’t necessarily over, but a quick return remains unlikely.
GettyWhen Will Anthony Edwards Return? Insider Gives Honest Injury Update
Fortunately, Minnesota showed they can hold their own without their star. The Timberwolves finished with an impressive 8-4 record without Edwards during the regular season, and Ayo Dosunmu delivered a staggering 43-point performance to help the Wolves close out Game 4 even after Edwards’ early exit.
Head coach Chris Finch has repeatedly emphasized his team’s depth, and with Minnesota leading the series 3-1, the window for Edwards to potentially return if he heals fast remains open.
Jayesh Pagar Jayesh Pagar is a writer at Heavy Sports, covering the New York Knicks and other NBA teams. He brings four years of experience across digital sports media, including NBA, WNBA, college basketball, and college football. He covered as the Knicks beat writer for ONSI and has written for PFSN, Sporting News, and ClutchPoints. More about Jayesh Pagar
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