The Minnesota Timberwolves begin the 2025-26 NBA season aiming to build on back-to-back conference finals appearances. They open the campaign tonight against the Portland Trail Blazers, with questions surrounding whether star guard Anthony Edwards will be available.
For tonight’s matchup in Portland, the Timberwolves have listed Anthony Edwards as questionable with a lingering back issue. However, Chris Hine of the Minnesota Star Tribune confirmed that Edwards will play in tonight’s game.
The Timberwolves’ star joined the team for the morning shootaround and has been cleared to play. He’ll start alongside Donte DiVincenzo, Julius Randle, Jaden McDaniels, and Rudy Gobert.
Having Edwards healthy is crucial for the Timberwolves, who aim to reach the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history. Last season, Edwards averaged 27.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, being the leader of the team.
Blazers also missing key players
The Portland Trail Blazers are facing some confirmed absences for tonight’s game. Most notably, Damian Lillard is out for an extended period after suffering a torn Achilles while with the Bucks.
Other players missing tonight’s opener include Scoot Henderson (hamstring) and Robert Williams III (knee). Jrue Holiday is expected to start alongside Shaedon Sharpe, Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, and Donovan Clingan.
“You know it’s tough,” Williams said at media day. “Injuries aren’t easy for anyone. As soon as I’m back on the court, moving and feeling like my old self, it goes away. I’ve been through a couple [of] injuries. I know the ins and outs. I learned that you can’t do it alone. That’s when you start going the other way”.