The Minnesota Timberwolves announced on Thursday that star player Anthony Edwards underwent a successful arthroscopic procedure on his right knee at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. The surgery involved a debridement, a minimally invasive technique designed to clean and remove damaged cartilage, bone spurs, or loose joint fragments to alleviate pain and enhance mobility.
Although the team's official statement confirmed Edwards is expected to make a full recovery, it did not specify a timeline for his return. However, sources speaking to ESPN's Shams Charania indicated that the 25-year-old guard could be out of action for as long as two months. Timberwolves president of basketball operations Tim Connelly expressed confidence that Edwards will return "good as new," emphasizing that the organization prioritizes his long-term health over immediate availability.
Edwards has been dealing with right knee pain since last spring, an issue that contributed to him playing a career-low 61 games in the previous season. Despite visible discomfort during Sunday's home opener against the Toronto Raptors and being listed as questionable for Monday's game, he managed to score 47 points in an overtime loss to Cleveland. Through four games this season, Edwards has already set a franchise record with 133 points.
An MRI conducted on Tuesday revealed new damage that was not detected in previous scans performed before training camp or during the playoffs. Connelly noted that while his condition warranted attention now, it would not have recommended a procedure earlier in the summer. Edwards has reportedly maintained a positive attitude, quickly reaching out to teammates to assure them of their ability to move forward without him.
Head coach Chris Finch described the news as a shock but expressed confidence in the team's depth and experience to navigate an extended absence. Finch acknowledged the challenge of filling the scoring void left by Edwards, stating that the team will need to distribute shots more broadly among the roster to compensate for his points.
Sources: ESPN NBA.