Anthony Edwards Cleared to Play as Timberwolves Host Hawks at Target Center
Anthony Edwards will be in the starting lineup tonight when the Minnesota Timberwolves welcome the Atlanta Hawks to Target Center for their crucial NBA matchup. Despite appearing on the injury report earlier in the day with a "right foot injury maintenance" designation, the Timberwolves organization has officially confirmed that their star guard is active and ready to contribute.
Injury Report Concerns Addressed as Edwards Remains Available
The pre-game injury listing understandably generated some anxiety among Timberwolves fans, particularly given Edwards' recent history with foot-related issues. However, that uncertainty has now been completely eliminated with the team's announcement that their leading scorer will indeed take the court as Minnesota seeks to regain momentum in the competitive Western Conference standings.
Anthony Edwards has been managing soreness in his right foot since late 2025, when a combination of toe injury and infection sidelined him for multiple games during December. Since making his return to action, the Timberwolves medical staff has regularly included him on injury reports with either "questionable" status or maintenance designations as part of their ongoing management strategy.
Precautionary Approach Amid Heavy Workload
Remarkably, Edwards has not missed a single game throughout 2026 despite these recurring injury report appearances, continuing to log significant minutes for his team. Basketball analysts and team insiders view the latest listing as purely precautionary rather than indicative of any new injury development. The organization appears focused on carefully managing his workload during this particularly demanding stretch of the schedule.
The Timberwolves are implementing this cautious approach while recognizing Edwards' vital importance to their playoff aspirations. Minnesota currently holds a 32–22 record and occupies the sixth position in the highly competitive Western Conference, making every remaining game before the All-Star break critically important.
Statistical Impact and Matchup Dynamics
Edwards enters Monday's contest averaging approximately 25.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game this season. His scoring prowess and shot creation abilities remain absolutely central to Minnesota's offensive schemes and overall success.
The visiting Atlanta Hawks arrive with a 26–28 record, currently positioned ninth in the Eastern Conference. Atlanta depends heavily on forward Jalen Johnson, who averages around 23.4 points per game, and employs a perimeter-oriented offensive system. Defensively, the Hawks are expected to deploy multiple defenders against Edwards, with De'Andre Hunter likely serving as one of the primary matchups tasked with containing Minnesota's explosive guard.
Timely Availability Following Recent Setback
Edwards' confirmed availability carries additional significance following Minnesota's disappointing 115–96 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, a game that exposed some defensive vulnerabilities. Despite the recurring maintenance designations, Edwards has demonstrated impressive durability this season, helping the Timberwolves maintain their competitive standing in the conference.
For fantasy basketball participants and sports bettors, Edwards' active status substantially improves Minnesota's outlook for tonight's contest. He has delivered several high-usage performances recently, including multiple games approaching the 30-point threshold, and tonight's matchup presents another favorable opportunity for offensive production.
As of February 9, 2026, Anthony Edwards is officially active and starting against the Atlanta Hawks. The "right foot injury maintenance" designation reflects the organization's precautionary approach rather than any serious medical concern, and he is expected to handle his customary workload as Minnesota attempts to halt their brief losing streak before the upcoming All-Star break.
