Nuggets Prepare for Potential Anthony Edwards Return in Game 1

The Timberwolves star is questionable with a knee injury, but signs point to him playing in the playoff opener.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:54pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the action and energy of a basketball game between two teams, with sharp geometric shapes and planes of color representing the players and court.The intense rivalry between the Nuggets and Timberwolves is set to continue in the NBA playoffs, with the status of Minnesota's star guard Anthony Edwards a key factor.Denver Today

The Denver Nuggets are preparing to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the NBA playoffs, with the status of Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards uncertain due to a knee injury. Edwards has been participating in pregame warmups, suggesting he could play in Game 1 on Saturday, but the Timberwolves have not yet upgraded his status from questionable.

Why it matters

Edwards' potential return would be a significant challenge for the Nuggets, as the young star has been a thorn in their side this season. The Timberwolves-Nuggets rivalry has intensified, and Edwards' presence could swing the series in Minnesota's favor.

The details

The Timberwolves and Nuggets have faced each other four times this season, with the Timberwolves winning one of those matchups. In their last meeting in March, Edwards scored 21 points, dished out 6 assists, and added 3 rebounds, 1 steal, and 2 blocks in 39 minutes of play.

  • The Timberwolves announced Edwards as questionable for Game 1 on Friday, April 17.
  • Edwards was seen going through his usual pregame warmup routine on Saturday, April 18, suggesting he could play in the series opener.

The players

Anthony Edwards

The star guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who has been dealing with a knee injury but is expected to play in Game 1 against the Denver Nuggets.

Denver Nuggets

The NBA team facing the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs, who are preparing to potentially face a healthy Anthony Edwards.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, for sure [it's a rivalry]. I don't think there's anything else to call it but a rivalry. I think there's a lot of rivalries in the league now. And me and Denver is one of them.”

— Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves Guard

What’s next

The Timberwolves will officially announce Edwards' status for Game 1 closer to the 3:30 PM ET tip-off on Saturday.

The takeaway

This first-round matchup between the Timberwolves and Nuggets has the makings of an exciting and competitive series, especially if Anthony Edwards is able to suit up and continue his strong play against Denver this season.