T’Wolves, win comes at a heavy cost: season over for DiVincenzo, Edwards status uncertain
The T’Wolves take Game 4 to go up 3-1 in the series, but the night was overshadowed by injuries to Donte DiVincenzo, who suffered an Achilles tear, and Anthony Edwards, forced out with a knee issue
The Minnesota Timberwolves have one foot in the next round of the NBA Playoffs, defeating the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 and taking a 3-1 series lead. A massive win that, however, could come with serious consequences for the rest of their postseason run.
The Minneapolis franchise is now dealing with two injuries that have everyone holding their breath. Donte DiVincenzo suffered an Achilles tendon tear, ending his season, while the status of Anthony Edwards remains unclear after he exited in the second quarter with a left knee injury.
DiVincenzo, Achilles injury: season over
The former Knicks guard saw his night end after just one minute and nineteen seconds. While trying to recover a loose ball, DiVincenzo slipped to the floor and immediately showed signs of severe pain in his right leg. The seriousness of the injury was clear right away.
He left the court unable to put weight on his foot and later exited the arena in a wheelchair. For Minnesota, this is a huge loss both technically and emotionally.
Head coach Chris Finch didn’t hide his feelings after the game:
I’m completely devastated for Donte
Chris Finch
Anthony Edwards, waiting on test results
Compounding the situation for the Timberwolves was the injury to Anthony Edwards. “Ant-Man” went down late in the second quarter after landing awkwardly while contesting a shot.
His left knee appeared to twist unnaturally upon landing. Edwards was helped to the locker room by the medical staff and did not return to the game.
Dosunmu leads Minnesota: “This win is for them”
Despite losing two starters, the Timberwolves responded with tremendous heart. Stepping up was an outstanding Ayo Dosunmu, who poured in 43 points in the win that puts Minnesota on the brink of advancing.
After the game, Dosunmu dedicated the victory to his injured teammates:
It broke my heart. This win is for them. Ant and Donte mean so much to this organization. I’m sending them my prayers and hope they recover as soon as possible
Ayo Dosunmu
The emotional impact on the group
The double blow inevitably affected the Timberwolves’ locker room, now forced to respond in a very delicate situation.
Finch emphasized the emotional toll on the team:
Losing two players like that is really tough, especially emotionally for the whole team
Chris Finch
Timberwolves, everything depends on Edwards
While DiVincenzo is officially out for the remainder of the season, Minnesota’s immediate future will depend on the results of Anthony Edwards’ injury evaluation.
The Timberwolves are just one win away from advancing, but their playoff run will inevitably hinge on the condition of their star.