Since suffering a bone bruise and hyperextended knee, Anthony Edwards' status for the rest of the playoffs has been unclear. However, optimism has continued to build, and now, according to Shams Charania, Edwards barring a pregame setback, is expected to play in Game 1 tonight against the San Antonio Spurs.
Frankly, Ant returning just nine days after suffering his knee injury is an amazing accomplishment. The injury was first expected to sideline Ant for multiple weeks and looked rather severe. On Sunday, Shams reported that Edwards was aiming to return in the middle of the series before the Minnesota Timberwolves officially listed him as questionable for Monday's game.
Shams labeled Ant's progress as "unforeseen" and noted that he has tried multiple treatments over the last several days, including hyperbaric chamber sessions, to expedite his timetable.
Edwards has long been known for his remarkably quick recovery times, but this is easily the most miraculous return time we've seen from him. Without a doubt, getting their superstar back in the fold will be a massive boost to the Timberwolves as they attempt to pull off their second straight upset.
Anthony Edwards' return could help the Timberwolves upset the Spurs
Ant's injury marked his second knee injury (in opposite legs) since March. It's fair to have some concern about what level of play we'll see from him and the risks of return from an injury this soon.
Edwards averaged 23 points while shooting just 39 percent from the field during the three full games he played in the first-round. There were times when it looked like his previous knee injury was bothering him.
The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski noted that Edwards' exact role is being discussed, meaning he may play a more limited role minutes-wise before ramping up for the rest of the series.
Regardless, Edwards' presence can only be additive to the Wolves, and he wouldn't be playing if the medical staff didn't believe there's limited risk. This could ultimately set the stage for another massive upset.
The Timberwolves are facing the impossible task of dealing with Victor Wembanyama's elite rim protection. Edwards' extra 3-point shooting will be vital to counter Wemby's presence at the rim. Plus, despite his knee injury and Wemby, we know that Ant won't be afraid to attack the paint.
Edwards will also have his hands full dealing with Stephon Castle's stellar perimeter defense. Still, Ant can give the Wolves the star-level shot creation and scoring that they sorely need to overcome a difficult Spurs matchup.
Back in the regular season, Edwards scored a career-high 55 points against Wemby and the Spurs. His proven success in this matchup and overall excellence should give fans confidence that an upset can happen.
Of course, beating the Spurs will still be a tall task even with Ant back, but the Wolves keep teaching us to expect the unexpected.
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