Anthony Edwards Expected to Play in Playoff Opener vs Nuggets

Timberwolves star guard has been dealing with knee injury management but is expected to be available for Game 1.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:36pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match between two teams, with sharp planes of navy blue, forest green, and gold colors creating a dynamic, abstract composition.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes playoff clash between the Timberwolves and Nuggets, with star guard Anthony Edwards' status a key factor.Denver Today

The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to get a major boost ahead of Game 1 of their playoff series against the Denver Nuggets, with star guard Anthony Edwards expected to be available despite recent knee injury concerns. Edwards has been dealing with right knee injury maintenance in the final stretch of the regular season, but is now going through his normal pregame routine and is expected to be good to go for the series opener.

Why it matters

Edwards is a key player for the Timberwolves, having posted a career-best 28.8 points per game during the regular season. His availability for the playoffs is crucial as Minnesota looks to make a deep postseason run against a tough Nuggets team led by two-time MVP Nikola Jokic.

The details

Edwards appeared in only four games after the Timberwolves' March 15 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, as the team managed his workload carefully due to the knee issue. However, he has now been fully involved in Minnesota's practice sessions leading into the playoff matchup, which is a positive sign for his availability.

  • The Timberwolves are set to face the Nuggets in Game 1 of their playoff series.
  • Edwards has been dealing with a right knee injury in the final stretch of the regular season.

The players

Anthony Edwards

A 24-year-old guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves who had a career-best season, averaging 28.8 points per game.

Nikola Jokic

The two-time NBA MVP who leads the Denver Nuggets, the Timberwolves' opponent in the first round of the playoffs.

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What they’re saying

“Edwards is going through his normal pregame routine and is expected to be good to go for Game 1.”

— Jon Krawczynski, Reporter, The Athletic

What’s next

The Timberwolves and Nuggets will tip off their first-round playoff series on Saturday, April 20th.

The takeaway

The Timberwolves' chances of advancing in the playoffs hinge heavily on the health of Anthony Edwards, their star guard. His expected availability for Game 1 against the Nuggets is a significant boost for Minnesota as they look to make a deep postseason run.