One of the league’s biggest stars could be absent from this year’s NBA All-Star Game.
Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards said he may consider skipping the All-Star Game to recover before the second half of the season.
“I’m pretty banged up. I might not be playing,” Edwards said, per The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski. “I hope it’s competitive.”
Edwards has stayed healthy all season, missing just one game so far, but he was recently listed on the Timberwolves’ injury report with back spasms. That was before Minnesota’s contest against the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday, but he was able to play despite the designation. He certainly appeared healthy on Monday as he dropped 39 points.
On Wednesday, Edwards was given a new injury status, this time listed on the injury report with left elbow soreness.
Just like on Monday, Edwards played through the injury and thrived in a 30-point, 8-rebound, 5-assist effort against the Toronto Raptors. His performance helped the Wolves pick up their first win in Toronto in 22 years.
No Edwards in the All-Star Game would be quite the disappointment. He’s set to team up with stars like Devin Booker, Cade Cunningham and Tyrese Maxey in a new format that pits players from the United States up against stars from around the World.
But while his All-Star Team might miss him if he decides to sit out of the game, his health is the priority as the Timberwolves look to accomplish their goal of winning a title. Minnesota is currently sitting in fifth place in the West at 32-20 and hopes to make another deep run with Edwards leading the way.
Whether Edwards plays in the All-Star Game or not, he’ll get an extended break as Minnesota will have nine days off after its Feb. 9 matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.