Anthony Edwards Cleared to Return as Timberwolves Face Knicks

The Minnesota Timberwolves are welcoming back their franchise cornerstone. Head coach Chris Finch confirmed Wednesday that All-Star guard Anthony Edwards will return to action against the New York Knicks after sitting out four games with a strained right hamstring. The decision came after Edwards showed no lingering effects from the injury during recent practices and full-contact drills.

“Ant looked like himself again,” Finch said before the game. “He’s been moving well, competing hard, and showing the energy and explosiveness we’re used to seeing from him. Once the medical staff cleared him and he said he felt good, it was an easy call.”

Edwards originally suffered the injury just three minutes into Minnesota’s home opener against the Indiana Pacers on October 26. The setback came at an unfortunate time — only the team’s third game of the season — forcing the Wolves to adjust quickly without their top scorer.

Now, after nearly two weeks on the sidelines, the 23-year-old star is ready to rejoin the team and reestablish his rhythm as the Timberwolves aim to steady their early-season form in a competitive Western Conference.

1. Injury Timeline and Recovery Process

Edwards’ recovery was closely monitored by the Timberwolves’ training staff, who took a cautious approach given the nature of the injury. Hamstring strains can be unpredictable, particularly for explosive athletes like Edwards whose game relies heavily on burst, acceleration, and lateral movement. The team first announced Monday that Edwards had been cleared for full-contact basketball activities, a strong sign that his rehab had reached its final stage. He was listed as “questionable” on the injury report for Wednesday’s matchup, but Finch’s confirmation erased any lingering doubt about his availability. Before the injury, Edwards had been in midseason form. In his two full games played, he averaged 36 points while shooting efficiently from the field and asserting himself as Minnesota’s offensive catalyst. His ability to score from all three levels and create for teammates had set an early tone for the Wolves’ attack. The four-game absence marked the longest stretch Edwards has missed in his NBA career. Over his first three seasons, the All-Star guard had proven remarkably durable, playing 79 games in each year — a testament to his conditioning and work ethic.

2. Minnesota Looks to Reignite Offense with Edwards Back

Edwards’ return could not come at a better time for Minnesota. During his absence, the Timberwolves struggled to generate consistent offense, relying heavily on Julius Randle’s scoring and Rudy Gobert’s defense to stay competitive. Without Edwards’ dynamic shot-making and leadership, the team often looked stagnant, particularly in late-game situations. Finch emphasized the importance of getting Edwards back into rhythm without overextending him too early. “We’ll be smart about his minutes and see how he feels as the game goes on,” he said. “The main thing is to get him comfortable again and make sure he’s building back up the right way.” Teammates have echoed similar sentiments, expressing excitement at having their star guard back on the court. “He brings energy and confidence to everyone,” said Gobert. “When Ant’s out there, the game opens up — he makes everything easier.” The Timberwolves enter Wednesday’s contest looking to climb back toward .500 after a rocky start to the season. With Edwards healthy and reinserted into the lineup, Minnesota will hope to regain the offensive firepower that made them one of the league’s most promising young teams last year.

3. Looking Ahead for the Timberwolves

As Edwards returns, the Timberwolves’ focus now shifts toward finding consistency and maintaining health across their roster. The Western Conference remains tightly contested, and Minnesota’s ambitions of returning to the playoffs will hinge largely on Edwards’ form and availability. Coach Finch has repeatedly highlighted the team’s need for growth and balance, particularly on offense, where Edwards’ presence as both a scorer and playmaker can elevate those around him. The Wolves will aim to integrate him seamlessly back into their system without disrupting the chemistry built during his absence. If Edwards can stay healthy, the Timberwolves’ trajectory could quickly change. His elite scoring ability, defensive competitiveness, and on-court leadership have made him one of the league’s brightest young stars — and Minnesota’s clear engine for success. Wednesday’s return marks more than just another game; it represents the Timberwolves regaining their identity.