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Edwards Returns, Wolves Edge Spurs 104-102

5/5/2026

Summary

Edwards Returns, Wins

Anthony Edwards returned from a hyperextended knee and bone bruise to score 18 points as the Timberwolves beat the San Antonio Spurs 104-102 in Game 1 on May 5, 2026.
He played 25 minutes off the bench and shot 8-of-13.
The injury happened nine days earlier in Game 4 of the first-round series versus Denver.
Edwards said he felt great and could play more minutes if coach Chris Finch asked.

Summary

Edwards Returns Early

Medical staff moved Anthony Edwards' return from May 9 to May 4 after hyperbaric-chamber and underwater-treadmill therapy.
Edwards wore a knee sleeve, completed Monday shootaround drills, and praised therapist David Hines.
Minnesota listed Edwards as questionable for Game 1, noting Mike Conley said his practice boosted morale.
The Wolves won Game 6 despite missing Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo (torn Achilles) and Ayo Dosunmu (calf soreness), a first playoff series win with three double-digit scorers out.

Summary

Spurs Prepare

Coach Mitch Johnson said the Spurs will maintain their physical style regardless of Anthony Edwards’ availability.
Guard Keldon Johnson said the team is preparing for every Edwards scenario to win the opening two games.
Carter Bryant’s right-foot soreness sidelines him as Gobert continues to struggle defending Victor Wembanyama.
The series tip-off is Monday, May 4, 2024, at 8:30 p.m. Central on Peacock and NBCSN, with the teams having split their meetings 2-2.

History

Historical Context

Michael Jordan, after missing the 1997-98 season’s first two games, returned to lead the Chicago Bulls to their sixth NBA title in 1998, averaging 28.7 ppg and earning Finals MVP. In May 2026, Anthony Edwards overcame a hyper-extended knee to score 18 points, propelling the Minnesota Timberwolves past the San Antonio Spurs—illustrating how modern injury therapies can reshape playoff outcomes.

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Edwards Returns, Wins

Anthony Edwards returned from a hyperextended knee and bone bruise to score 18 points as the Timberwolves beat the San Antonio Spurs 104-102 in Game 1 on May 5, 2026.
He played 25 minutes off the bench and shot 8-of-13.
The injury happened nine days earlier in Game 4 of the first-round series versus Denver.
Edwards said he felt great and could play more minutes if coach Chris Finch asked.

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