Anthony Edwards to Undergo Knee Surgery, Expected to Miss Two Months or More
Anthony Edwards, the Minnesota Timberwolves' standout player, is set to have an arthroscopic surgery on his right knee. ESPN's Shams Charania revealed that Edwards could be sidelined for up to two months.
The exact details of Edwards' knee issue remain unclear, but it has been a nagging problem since last season and continued into the current campaign. Reports indicate the procedure is scheduled for Thursday, with some sources suggesting Edwards might be out longer than two months. The Timberwolves have yet to officially comment on the upcoming surgery.
What Is Affecting Edwards’ Knee?
Last playoffs, Edwards dealt with a chronic runner’s knee condition. His performance dropped as he also injured his left knee during the first-round series against the Denver Nuggets, missing some games. He returned for the second round against the San Antonio Spurs but was not fully recovered.
During the offseason, Edwards focused on rest and recovery but showed signs of discomfort in his right knee in the early regular-season games. According to The Athletic, Edwards aggravated his knee during Minnesota’s season opener win against the Miami Heat. A few games later, he appeared in pain after colliding with another player during a victory over the Toronto Raptors.
Despite being listed as questionable for a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers due to knee issues, Edwards played 41 minutes and scored 47 points. He was also doubtful for the following game against the Golden State Warriors, which he will now miss.
Impact on Timberwolves and NBA Season
This setback is a significant challenge for one of the league’s brightest stars and the Timberwolves team, which currently holds a 3-1 record. Minnesota aims to break into the NBA Finals after reaching the Western Conference finals twice in the past three seasons, with Edwards entering his prime years.
The team reshaped their roster around Edwards in the offseason, trading away key players Naz Reid and Julius Randle, while acquiring All-Star guard LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets. Early returns show success as Edwards thrived alongside Ball’s playmaking.
- Edwards’ stats through four games: 33.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2 steals per game
- Shooting: 40% on 11.3 three-point attempts per game
- Team offense: 122 points per game, fourth highest in the NBA
- Point differential: +17 points, second best in the league
With Edwards sidelined potentially for the remainder of the year, Minnesota hopes he recovers fully and returns in time to compete for a playoff position. Meanwhile, Ball is expected to take on a heavier scoring load, and Ayo Dosunmu may move into the starting lineup from the bench.
