Anthony Edwards to Miss Two Months for Right Knee Surgery Despite Strong Start

Key points

• Anthony Edwards will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, sidelining him for up to two months, per ESPN's Shams Charania.
• The decision follows a 47-point performance in an overtime loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, despite ongoing knee issues.
• Edwards was listed as questionable for the game against the Cavaliers due to 'right knee injury maintenance' and had been receiving treatment for the issue.
• The Timberwolves are 3-1 this season, with Edwards averaging 33.1 points per game on 48.1% shooting, including games of 45 and 47 points.
• Edwards had previously taken two months off in the summer to heal both knees after dealing with a hyperextended left knee and right knee inflammation during last season's playoffs.

Background

Edwards had previously taken two months off in the summer to heal both knees after dealing with a hyperextended left knee and right knee inflammation during last season's playoffs. He missed the final game of Minnesota's first-round playoff win over the Denver Nuggets last year but returned against the San Antonio Spurs for Game 1 of the conference semifinals off the bench. The Timberwolves acquired LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets in a June blockbuster, and the team has been looking like one of the best in the NBA behind the electric duo of Edwards and Ball.

How outlets are covering it

ESPN and NBA.com both reported that Edwards will undergo an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee and miss up to two months, citing Shams Charania. CBS Sports emphasized the timing of the surgery, noting it came less than 24 hours after Edwards scored 47 points in an overtime loss to Cleveland. The Athletic reported that Edwards had been dealing with inflammation in his right knee and had been getting around-the-clock treatment and having his knee drained multiple times to stay available. The sources generally agree on the surgery and the timeline, but differ in emphasis, with CBS Sports highlighting the contrast between Edwards' recent performance and the injury, while ESPN and NBA.com focus on the medical details and the impact on the team.

Why it matters

Edwards is a key player for the Timberwolves, and his absence for up to two months will significantly impact the team's performance. The Timberwolves are 3-1 this season, and Edwards is averaging 33.1 points per game on 48.1% shooting, making him a crucial part of the team's success. His absence will also affect the team's dynamics, as he and LaMelo Ball have been a strong duo. The decision to undergo surgery early in the season, rather than continuing to play through the injury, suggests that the team is prioritizing Edwards' long-term health and performance.

What to watch

The Timberwolves will need to adjust their lineup and strategy in Edwards' absence, with players like Ayo Dosunmu, Terrence Shannon Jr., Jaden McDaniels, and Jonathan Kuminga expected to see increased minutes. The team will also need to manage the impact of Edwards' absence on their performance and morale. Edwards' return is targeted for December, and his recovery will be closely monitored by the team and the league.