Anthony Edwards received a medical update Tuesday that changes more than just the Minnesota Timberwolves lineup. An MRI revealed inflammation in the right knee of the 24-year-old guard. He will miss at least one to two weeks. On the surface, a short absence for a star averaging 29.5 points per game is a standard hurdle in a long season. However, this specific timeline creates a crisis for both the player and the organization.
The team scheduled a re-evaluation for Edwards in the coming weeks. Reportedly, he will miss contests against the Suns, Jazz, Trail Blazers, and Celtics. While the injury is not considered serious, the timing is a nightmare. Edwards is on the brink of a massive financial loss because of a league rule.
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The NBA requires players to appear in at least 65 games to qualify for All-NBA teams. Edwards has appeared in 58 games this season. Yet, he only has 57 qualifying games. In Oct., Edwards left a game against the Pacers after only three minutes because of a hamstring injury. Because he did not play 20 minutes, that game does not count toward the threshold.
Four-time NBA All-Star now has an eight-game margin. If his knee keeps him on hold for the full 14 days, he will mathematically fail to reach 65 games. This would make Edwards entirely ineligible for postseason honors.
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“In being named All-NBA Second Team, the one-time salary bonus was triggered for Edwards’ max contract extension that is set to kick in next season. That bonus, according to NBA insider Bobby Marks, is worth an extra $41 million over the life of the extension,” the Minnesota Timberwolves on SI report said.
If Edwards misses the cut, he loses that $41 million raise. This has a significant impact on the team. His salary is scheduled to jump to $42.3 million next season if he maintains his honors. Without it, the Timberwolves might avoid the second salary cap, which is projected at $189.5 million. Teams above this limit face a dilemma with trades and first-round picks.
The coach now seems to rely on three-time NBA All-Star Julius Randle and NBA All-Star Mike Conley. While Edwards must return in the nick of time to save his accolades and his paycheck.
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Related: Timberwolves Dealt Unfortunate Anthony Edwards Injury News on Tuesday
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.