Minnesota surprises against the Spurs in Anthony Edwards' epic comeback

Minnesota Timberwolves started the Western Conference semifinals with an unexpected blow by defeating San Antonio Spurs 104-102 in the first game, and did so with a protagonist that few expected to see on the court: Anthony Edwards.

Just eight days after suffering a painful bone bruise in his left knee, the shooting guard decided to push his return earlier than expected. According to his own explanation, he felt on Sunday at some point that his knee was responding well enough to compete at the highest level. And he did not hesitate.

"I know that my presence reassures everyone," he said after the game.

Edwards' reappearance surprised even within the team itself. After a week of recovery based on specific work—such as sessions in underwater treadmill and band exercises—his return seemed to point further ahead in the series.

In fact, more conservative timelines were being considered within the team. Some were thinking about his return for the third game, while coach Chris Finch even considered the second as the earliest scenario.

However, Edwards accelerated all timelines. Without having participated in full-contact training, he insisted to the medical staff and management that he was ready. He was listed as doubtful on Sunday, but after training in the morning on Monday wearing a bulky knee brace, he finally received clearance.

Veteran Mike Conley summed up the team's feelings clearly, highlighting the admiration for the effort made by his teammate.

Immediate Impact off the Bench

Minnesota Timberwolves opted for a cautious approach, using Edwards as a substitute and limiting his playing time to 25 minutes in a game that remained close until the end.

Still, his impact was evident. The shooting guard scored 18 points with an impressive 8-13 from the field, providing the offensive boost the team needed on a night marked by overall lack of accuracy.

In crucial moments, Edwards once again made a difference: he scored five baskets and added 11 points in the last nine minutes, proving pivotal in sealing the victory.

Between Feelings and Warnings

Not everything was perfect. There were moments of concern, like when he touched his knee after an action in the second half. Additionally, the player himself acknowledged that he is still not one hundred percent, especially in the physical aspect, which was reflected in two offensive rebounds given away in the final minutes.

Nevertheless, the feelings were positive. Edwards stated feeling well and made it clear that he is ready to take on a bigger role if the team needs it in upcoming games.

Defense as the Foundation of Victory

Beyond the return of their star, Minnesota Timberwolves built the victory on a very solid defense. The team managed to contain the main references of San Antonio Spurs, limiting De'Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama to a combined 10-for-31 shooting.

Both players also missed all 12 of their three-point attempts, in a particularly tough night for the visiting offense, which was held to just 45 points at halftime.

With that scenario, and with the emotional boost of Edwards' return, Minnesota Timberwolves takes the lead in a series that, so far, has defied all predictions.