NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)— Throughout his career, the Minnesota Timberwolves have often watched Anthony Edwards in agony on the court, only to see their standout guard return to action. However, this incident unfolded differently. The sprained left ankle that sidelined Edwards during the second quarter of Game 2 against Golden State on Thursday night genuinely concerned him.
“I was genuinely apprehensive about this one,” commented coach Chris Finch. “As an elite athlete, there are many advantages, including the ability to brush off injuries. However, I honestly expected not to see him back for the remainder of the game.”
Against the odds, Edwards made his return, igniting applause from the audience as he reappeared for warmups just before the second half commenced. The 23-year-old concluded the game with impressive stats: 20 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and three steals, contributing significantly to the Timberwolves’ 117-93 win over the Warriors, which leveled the series.
“That was intense,” Edwards remarked. “But I’ll be fine.”
The hang-time. The finish.
Masterful execution by Anthony Edwards 🎨
Timberwolves tie the series.pic.twitter.com/EDkvAsxBrv
— NBA (@NBA)May 9, 2025
During a fast break, Edwards attempted a layup that Warriors center Trayce Jackson-Davis blocked, but the impact caused Jackson-Davis to land on Edwards’ left foot as they both descended.
Immediately, Edwards clutched his ankle while seated on the court beneath the basket. He couldn’t bear weight on his left foot and needed assistance to exit the game, even as Golden State’s Draymond Green came over to check on him.
Once in the locker room, David Hines, the vice president for medical operations and performance therapy, sprang into action.
“When we reached about the third movement with my ankle, I thought, ‘Okay, it’s starting to feel better. If we tape it, I’ll see how it holds up,’” Edwards recounted. “David ensures I’m ready before I step back out, so a huge thanks to him.”
A three-time All-Star and the fourth-highest scorer in the NBA during the regular season, Edwards had only recorded seven points on 2-for-7 shooting prior to his injury. However, his performance upon returning was more than enough to reassure the Timberwolves and their supporters that there were no significant concerns moving forward in the series.
Late in the third quarter, Edwards soared to catch a lob from Julius Randle and effortlessly converted it into a layup, successfully passing a crucial test for his ankle.
“Truly Superman,” said teammate Jaden McDaniels.
