Minnesota Timberwolves’ Ayo Dosunmu Returns for Game 2 vs. Spurs After Calf Injury; Anthony Edwards’ Status Remains Uncertain
The Timberwolves’ playoff push faces a critical test as key players navigate injury concerns ahead of Game 2 against the San Antonio Spurs.
The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to welcome back shooting guard Ayo Dosunmu for Game 2 of their second-round series against the San Antonio Spurs, according to a team announcement on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Dosunmu, who sat out Game 1 due to a right calf injury, is expected to play a pivotal role off the bench as the Timberwolves aim to extend their series lead. Meanwhile, All-Star guard Anthony Edwards, who returned from a knee injury in Game 1, remains listed as questionable for Game 2, adding another layer of uncertainty to Minnesota’s lineup.
Ayo Dosunmu: Back from Calf Injury for Game 2
The Timberwolves confirmed Dosunmu’s availability for Game 2 after he missed Game 1, which Minnesota won 112–106. Dosunmu’s return is a significant boost for the Timberwolves, who entered the series without their star guard after he suffered the calf injury in Game 5 of their first-round victory over the Denver Nuggets. His absence in Game 1 forced the Timberwolves to rely on Edwards and other role players, including Rudy Gobert, who contributed 20 points and 10 rebounds in the win.
Dosunmu’s impact in the playoffs has been undeniable. In Game 4 against the Nuggets, he delivered a career-high 43 points, leading Minnesota to a crucial victory in Edwards’ absence. His ability to stretch the floor and score efficiently makes him a critical piece in Minnesota’s rotation, especially with Edwards’ status still in question.
Key Takeaway: Dosunmu’s return adds depth to the Timberwolves’ bench, but his role may shift depending on Edwards’ availability.
Anthony Edwards’ Knee Injury: Will He Start Game 2?
Edwards, who played 25 minutes off the bench in Game 1, remains listed as questionable for Game 2. The Timberwolves’ star guard suffered a bone bruise and hyperextended his left knee in Game 4 against the Nuggets, sidelining him for the remainder of that series. However, he made a surprise return in Game 1 against the Spurs, contributing 18 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists on 8-of-13 shooting.

Edwards went through his normal morning shootaround routine on Wednesday, but the Timberwolves have not provided an official update on his status beyond the “questionable” designation. If Edwards starts Game 2, Dosunmu is expected to return to the bench, where he can serve as a secondary scoring option and three-point threat.
Key Takeaway: Edwards’ availability remains the biggest question mark for Minnesota, with Dosunmu’s return adding flexibility to the lineup.
What’s at Stake: Timberwolves’ Playoff Push
The Timberwolves enter Game 2 with a 1–0 series lead, but the Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama and Dejounte Murray, are no pushovers. San Antonio won Game 1 convincingly, and Minnesota will need their full roster to maintain momentum. The return of Dosunmu provides much-needed scoring depth, but the absence of Edwards—or his limited availability—could force the Timberwolves into a more conservative approach.
Coach Chris Finch will likely rely on a mix of Edwards (if healthy) and Dosunmu to stretch the Spurs’ defense, while Karl-Anthony Towns and Gobert anchor the paint. The Timberwolves’ ability to manage their lineup around injuries will be the difference between extending their series lead and facing elimination.
FAQ: Key Questions About the Timberwolves’ Lineup
- Will Ayo Dosunmu start Game 2?
- No. The Timberwolves have indicated Dosunmu will return to the bench, where he can provide scoring and playmaking off the court.
- Is Anthony Edwards guaranteed to play in Game 2?
- Not yet. Edwards remains listed as questionable, and his availability will depend on how he feels after Game 1 and his morning shootaround.
- How did the Timberwolves win Game 1 without Edwards?
- Minnesota relied on a balanced effort from Rudy Gobert (20 points, 10 rebounds), Karl-Anthony Towns (16 points, 10 rebounds), and role players like Jaden McDaniels (12 points). Dosunmu’s absence forced the team to spread the scoring load.
- What’s the Spurs’ biggest strength against Minnesota?
- San Antonio’s defense, particularly their ability to switch on screens and contain Minnesota’s sizeable men, has been a challenge. The Spurs also have depth with players like Tre Jones and Keldon Johnson who can step up in scoring.
What to Watch in Game 2
Game 2 promises to be a defensive battle, with both teams looking to assert their identity. Key storylines to watch:

- Edwards’ Minutes: If Edwards plays, how many minutes will he log? Will Finch start him or preserve him off the bench?
- Dosunmu’s Impact: Can Dosunmu replicate his playoff scoring while playing off the bench?
- Spurs’ Adjustments: How will the Spurs counter Minnesota’s small-ball lineups if Edwards sits?
- Gobert’s Two-Way Play: The French center has been a defensive anchor—can he continue to disrupt San Antonio’s offense?
With the stakes higher than ever, the Timberwolves’ ability to adapt to injury concerns will determine whether they grab a commanding 2–0 series lead or face a tough road back to Minnesota.
The Timberwolves’ playoff journey is far from over, but Dosunmu’s return and Edwards’ potential return offer a glimmer of hope. Game 2 will be a test of resilience, with Minnesota’s lineup flexibility and the Spurs’ depth on full display. One thing is certain: the NBA’s second round is never predictable, and every possession will matter.
Worth a look