What happened: Anthony Edwards is expected to play in Game 1 against the San Antonio Spurs, barring a pregame setback, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania. The Minnesota guard is just nine days removed from a left knee injury, well ahead of the team's initial expectation that he would return midseries.

Why it matters: Edwards is Minnesota's offensive engine, and his availability reshapes the series outlook against San Antonio. The Timberwolves are already without Donte DiVincenzo for the season after a torn right Achilles, making Edwards' early return critical to their playoff push.

What to watch: Watch for a pregame status update and any minutes restriction once Edwards is officially active. Spurs counter-moves and Wolves' rotation adjustments will follow.