The Minnesota Timberwolves face a significant uncertainty ahead of their crucial home clash against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Their star guard, Anthony Edwards, has been officially listed as questionable on the injury report.
Injury Management for Timberwolves' Top Scorer
The questionable designation stems from the ongoing maintenance program for Edwards' right foot. This soreness has been a recurring issue for much of the 2025-26 NBA season. The team's medical staff is carefully managing his workload as the schedule intensifies, balancing the need to stay competitive in the tough Western Conference with the long-term health of their franchise player.
Edwards has already missed one game this season due to this foot problem, sitting out against the Sacramento Kings. However, he has consistently played through the discomfort when cleared. In a recent example, he was also marked questionable before the January 6 game against the Miami Heat. He ultimately played 29 minutes in that contest, scoring 26 points without showing any obvious signs of limitation.
Edwards' Stellar Form and Potential Matchup Advantage
Despite the injury concern, Anthony Edwards has been in phenomenal scoring form. He is averaging 29.3 points per game for the season, ranking him seventh in the entire league. His January performances have been even more explosive, with a monthly average of 31.3 points per game. This includes standout games of 33 points against Miami and 35 points versus the Washington Wizards, complemented by active defensive play and multiple steals.
His potential availability could be a major factor against the Cavaliers. Cleveland's perimeter defense has been a weakness this season, particularly in defending the three-point line. Edwards, who is attempting over eight three-pointers per game this month, could exploit this mismatch if he takes the court.
Game Context and Contingency Plans
The matchup pits two playoff-positioned teams against each other. The Minnesota Timberwolves hold a 24-13 record, good for sixth place in the Western Conference. The visiting Cleveland Cavaliers are 21-17 and occupy the sixth spot in the East, entering the game on a three-game winning streak. Minnesota is favored by 2.5 points at Target Center.
Key battles will include the rebounding duel, with Rudy Gobert anchoring the paint for Minnesota. The Cavaliers' offense is spearheaded by Donovan Mitchell, with Evan Mobley providing interior presence.
If Anthony Edwards is ruled out, the Timberwolves will need others to step up. Point guard Mike Conley would shoulder more playmaking duties, while increased scoring responsibility would fall to forward Julius Randle and guard Bones Hyland. Edwards' final status is expected to be determined closer to the game's 5:00 PM ET tip-off.
