Anthony Edwards Perseveres Despite Knee Pain in Game 1 Loss to Nuggets
Anthony Edwards persevered despite knee pain in Game 1 against the Nuggets. He pushed through soreness and played heavy minutes in Denver.
Edwards’ performance and injury status
Edwards logged 38 minutes in the opener at Ball Arena. He finished with 22 points, nine rebounds and a season-high seven assists.
He shot 7-of-19 from the field and 2-of-9 from three. He also blocked three shots and committed three turnovers.
The right knee has been a lingering issue. He missed 11 of the final 14 regular-season games.
Edwards has played only three games since March 15, and never in consecutive contests. He received continuous treatment from David Hines.
On the court he wore a black protective legging. A Normatec compression sleeve provides ongoing pulse therapy off the floor.
Game flow and supporting performances
The Nuggets won 116-105. Denver entered the series with a 13-game winning streak.
Nikola Jokić recorded a triple-double with 25 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists. He also had five turnovers.
Jamal Murray finished with 30 points on 7-of-22 shooting. He missed all eight long-range attempts but reached the line 16 times.
Rudy Gobert supplied 17 points and 10 rebounds for Minnesota. Jaden McDaniels added 16 points and eight boards.
Donte DiVincenzo made four three-pointers for the Wolves. Naz Reid struggled, scoring five points on 2-of-6 shooting.
Team issues that mattered
Minnesota committed 25 fouls and sent Denver to the line often. The Nuggets attempted 21 free throws in the first half.
The Wolves shot 52 percent in the first quarter while holding Denver to 27 percent. Fouls prevented a larger early lead.
Julius Randle picked up two quick first-quarter fouls. He finished with 16 points and seven rebounds.
Coaching view and outlook for Game 2
Coach Chris Finch noted Edwards appeared frustrated by not feeling fully healthy. Finch emphasized rhythm and confidence.
Edwards said he felt some fatigue after missing significant time. He told teammates the club would respond in the next game.
Minnesota needs cleaner offense, fewer fouls and more transition opportunities. The Wolves also require Edwards to regain explosiveness.
Game 2 is scheduled for Monday night. Filmogaz.com will continue coverage and updates heading into that matchup.
