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Spurs Meet Timberwolves in Semis; Edwards Out, McDaniels Leads

5/2/2026

Summary

Wembanyama Faces Timberwolves

The San Antonio Spurs open the Western Conference Semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday at Frost Bank Center.
Victor Wembanyama said the Timberwolves pose a tougher tactical challenge than Portland.
Anthony Edwards is out with a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise, listed week-to-week.
Jaden McDaniels averages 16 points, 4.7 rebounds and three assists versus the Spurs.
He posted 32 points and 10 rebounds in Game 6 versus Denver.

Summary

Timberwolves Rally

The Minnesota Timberwolves erased a 19-point deficit to beat the San Antonio Spurs 104-103 on Jan 11, securing a second win in three regular-season meetings.
The franchises have faced each other in the playoffs only twice, in 1999 and 2001, with San Antonio winning both series 3-1.
Tickets for Timberwolves’ home games against the Spurs go on sale at noon Friday, while tip-off times and broadcast networks have not been announced.

Summary

Timberwolves Dismissed

ESPN panels gave the Timberwolves 15-1 odds vs. the Nuggets in 2024 and 11-1 odds vs. the Lakers in 2025.
Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley all predicted a Spurs win despite the Wolves’ recent upset of Denver.
National analysts have called Minnesota’s chances “zero,” continuing a pattern of dismissing the team after each playoff run.

Summary

Edwards Return

Anthony Edwards suffered a left knee injury and bone bruise in Game 4, avoided ligament damage, and may return for the May 8 home game or more likely the May 10 matchup.
Donte DiVincenzo is out for the season with a torn Achilles.
Kyle Anderson missed Game 6 because of illness.
The Timberwolves hope Edwards’s quick healing could improve their chances against Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs despite the roster setbacks.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 the lockout-shortened season saw the Spurs, led by Tim Duncan, sweep the Timberwolves 3-1 in the first round and capture San Antonio’s first NBA title. Decades later, the 2024-25 Spurs meet a Minnesota squad built around Anthony Edwards, echoing the earlier clash of emerging stars and the franchise’s long-standing rivalry.

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Wembanyama Faces Timberwolves

The San Antonio Spurs open the Western Conference Semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday at Frost Bank Center.
Victor Wembanyama said the Timberwolves pose a tougher tactical challenge than Portland.
Anthony Edwards is out with a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise, listed week-to-week.
Jaden McDaniels averages 16 points, 4.7 rebounds and three assists versus the Spurs.
He posted 32 points and 10 rebounds in Game 6 versus Denver.

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