Anthony Edwards Returns From Injury to Inspire Timberwolves’ Stunning Game 1 Win Over Spurs

Posted : 05 May 2026

Anthony Edwards made a dramatic return from a left knee injury to help the Minnesota Timberwolves secure a surprise 104-102 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals. The star guard had suffered a deep bone bruise just over a week earlier after his knee bent awkwardly during a block attempt, but believed by Sunday that the injury had healed enough for him to play.

Edwards, who described his presence as calming for the team, was initially expected to miss the early part of the series. However, after progressing through light workouts and limited practice sessions, he pushed for an earlier return than anticipated. Despite not participating in full contact drills or scrimmages, he convinced the medical staff he was ready to contribute.

The Timberwolves opted to bring Edwards off the bench as a precaution and limited him to 25 minutes. Even in a restricted role, he made a major impact, scoring 18 points on efficient shooting and providing a crucial offensive spark in a tightly contested game.

Veteran teammate Mike Conley praised Edwards’ determination, saying few expected him to feature so soon after the injury. Conley compared the performance to moments of personal resilience in his own career, highlighting the emotional lift Edwards gave the squad.

There were still brief signs of discomfort during the game, with Edwards occasionally favoring his knee and admitting afterward that he had not fully regained his explosiveness. However, he remained effective in key moments, scoring 11 points in the final stretch to help secure the win.

Minnesota’s victory was largely built on strong defensive execution, limiting San Antonio’s De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama to inefficient shooting nights. The Spurs struggled offensively in the first half, but Wembanyama still made history by recording 12 blocks, setting a new NBA playoff record.

Despite his defensive dominance, the Spurs were unable to close the game. A late turnover by Edwards briefly gave San Antonio hope, but Julian Champagnie missed a potential game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer, sealing Minnesota’s narrow win and Edwards’ emotional return becoming the defining storyline of the night.

Anthony Edwards Returns From Injury to Inspire Timberwolves’ Stunning Game 1 Win Over Spurs

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