The Minnesota Timberwolves face uncertainty as they prepare to battle the San Antonio Spurs on January 17, 2026. Star guard Anthony Edwards carries a questionable tag on the injury report. His status remains unclear just hours before tip-off.
Edwards' Lingering Foot Problem Creates Last-Minute Drama
A persistent right foot issue continues to trouble Anthony Edwards. This problem has followed him for several weeks now. The Timberwolves medical staff monitors his condition closely. They will make a final decision during pregame warmups.
Minnesota struggles significantly when Edwards misses games. The offense loses its primary scoring threat. Plays become predictable without his explosive drives. The team's pace slows noticeably. Every win matters deeply as the playoff race intensifies in the Western Conference.
Injury History Shows a Recurring Pattern
Anthony Edwards first appeared on injury reports back in December 2025. Right foot soreness caused him to miss several games during that period. His return showed no signs of rust whatsoever. Edwards immediately reclaimed his role as Minnesota's top scorer.
He scored over thirty points multiple times after coming back. Earlier this month, the same foot issue placed him on the questionable list for games against Miami, Cleveland, and San Antonio. Edwards played in all those contests. He even delivered a thirty-five-point performance during a back-to-back game.
The situation changed on January 16 against Toronto. A toe re-infection related to the foot problem forced him to sit out. That absence makes this Spurs matchup a genuine last-minute decision.
Game Details and Matchup Context
The Minnesota Timberwolves and San Antonio Spurs tip off at 8:00 PM EST. Frost Bank Center in San Antonio hosts the contest. The Spurs will play without Devin Vassell. However, Victor Wembanyama presents a formidable challenge with his size in the paint.
Minnesota currently holds fourth place in the Western Conference with a 25–13 record. A recent loss to Houston exposed some depth concerns. Terrence Shannon Jr. remains unavailable for the Timberwolves. On January 12, Minnesota narrowly defeated San Antonio 104–103.
Anthony Edwards scored twenty-three points in that victory. He helped erase an eighteen-point deficit. Edwards closed the game with aggressive drives during crucial moments.
Potential Impact If Edwards Sits Out
Mike Conley would shoulder more responsibility for organizing the offense without Edwards. Naz Reid and Rudy Gobert would need to carry a heavier load inside the paint. Minnesota's scoring output drops noticeably when Edwards misses games.
This could swing the game toward San Antonio despite Minnesota entering as favorites. The Timberwolves rely heavily on Edwards' scoring and playmaking abilities.
Why This Game Matters Greatly
Anthony Edwards crossed the ten-thousand career points milestone this season. He remains in the All-NBA conversation if he maintains his health. The playoff race tightens with each passing game. This contest tests how Minnesota handles uncertainty surrounding their star player.
All attention focuses on the injury report until the final moment. Fans and analysts alike await the decision from Timberwolves coaches and medical staff. The outcome could significantly impact Western Conference standings.
