Anthony Edwards Cleared for Contact as Timberwolves Eye His Eventual Return

The Minnesota Timberwolves finally received some encouraging news regarding their All-Star guard and franchise centerpiece. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Anthony Edwards has been cleared for contact basketball activities — a key step in his rehabilitation process. However, the team confirmed he will remain out for now as he works through the final stages of his return-to-play program.

Edwards, who has missed several games due to a hamstring strain, has been sorely missed by the Timberwolves. His absence has left a glaring void in both production and leadership, as Minnesota battles through a competitive Western Conference without its top offensive weapon.

Known for his strength, durability, and high-flying style, Edwards’ hamstring issue represents unfamiliar territory for the 24-year-old guard. Since entering the league in 2020, he has been remarkably consistent in staying healthy, never playing fewer than 72 games in a season. The longest previous stretch he’s missed was six consecutive games — a mark that could soon be surpassed depending on how cautious the team remains with his recovery.

While the news of Edwards’ clearance for contact offers optimism, the Timberwolves are taking no chances. The organization has made it clear that the focus remains on long-term health rather than rushing him back into action prematurely.

1. Timberwolves Adjust Without Their Leader

In Edwards’ absence, the Timberwolves have relied heavily on the combination of Julius Randle’s offensive output and Rudy Gobert’s defensive dominance to stay competitive. Randle has provided consistent scoring, while Gobert continues to anchor one of the league’s more reliable interior defenses. Still, without Edwards’ explosive playmaking, Minnesota’s offense has often struggled to maintain rhythm and energy. The void left by Edwards has forced head coach Chris Finch to adjust lineups and spread offensive responsibilities across the roster. Jaden McDaniels and Donte DiVincenzo have taken on larger roles, with both players contributing more minutes and attempting to fill the scoring gap. However, neither possesses Edwards’ ability to create shots off the dribble or generate fast-break opportunities — key components of Minnesota’s offensive identity. The team’s record has fluctuated during this stretch, revealing how reliant the Timberwolves are on their young star’s presence. Edwards’ combination of scoring, confidence, and intensity not only drives the offense but also sets the emotional tone for the group. His leadership on the court has been as valuable as his production. Without him, the Timberwolves have leaned more on half-court sets and defensive grit, hoping to stay afloat until his return. That strategy has worked in spurts, but the absence of Edwards’ explosiveness remains a significant hurdle.

2. Patience the Priority in Recovery

The Timberwolves’ medical staff continues to take a measured approach to Edwards’ recovery. Hamstring injuries are notoriously unpredictable, and for a player whose game relies on sudden acceleration and vertical explosiveness, caution is paramount. Even a minor setback could prolong his absence and affect his performance later in the season. “Being cleared for contact” typically marks the final phase before a full return, but it doesn’t necessarily mean game readiness. The team wants to ensure Edwards regains full mobility and confidence in his movement — particularly when making high-intensity cuts and jumps that define his style of play. Finch and the organization have made clear they will prioritize Edwards’ long-term health over short-term gains. The Western Conference race is long and demanding, and the Timberwolves understand their playoff aspirations hinge on a fully healthy Edwards leading the charge down the stretch. For now, the focus remains on steady progress. The medical and coaching staff continue to monitor his workload carefully, increasing intensity gradually while avoiding unnecessary risk. Each step forward in his rehab brings the team closer to getting its cornerstone back on the floor.

3. Hope Builds as Minnesota Looks Ahead

While no firm timeline for his return has been announced, Edwards’ clearance for contact is an unmistakable sign that he’s nearing the end of his recovery process. The Timberwolves and their fans can take comfort in knowing that his condition is improving and that he’s edging closer to game action. In the meantime, Minnesota will continue to depend on its depth and defensive discipline to navigate the Western Conference grind. Randle’s steady play, Gobert’s rim protection, and McDaniels’ defensive versatility will remain crucial as the team looks to stay competitive without its star guard. Once Edwards returns, his reintegration into the lineup could provide an immediate boost. His energy and scoring instincts have long been the heartbeat of Minnesota’s offense, and his leadership presence is expected to reenergize a group that has fought hard to stay in contention. For now, the Timberwolves’ best player is trending in the right direction — and his return could not come at a more important time for a team with playoff ambitions in a crowded conference.