Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch expressed frustration after Anthony Edwards was denied an “extraordinary circumstances” exception and ruled ineligible for end-of-season awards, pointing to Edwards’ durability and consistency over time.
“It sure would be nice to hear an explanation as to why Anthony was denied his 65 games, particularly when you look at the history of Anthony, who plays all the time and has played all the time,” Finch said on Thursday, per Jon Krawcznyski of The Athletic. “I’m not sure why we have a rule if we have an appeals process that is overturned in two-thirds of the cases that were held before it. It feels more like a suggestion than a rule.
“Again, (Doncic and Cunningham) are super deserving and their injuries are legitimate. It has nothing to do with them, but so are Anthony’s and Anthony’s situation. We’ve never rested him. That’s not how he’s been. It just feels a little unfortunate that he was the only one left out.”
Edwards’ business manager Justin Holland also voiced confusion about the decision-making process.
“Anthony and I appreciate the (NBPA) appealing his case,” Holland said. “For me personally, I’m a bit confused at the clemency for Cade who missed time for something that happened on the court, and not Ant, who missed time for an infection, but ultimately you already know Ant isn’t trippin’ over it AT ALL.
“He was mad he didn’t get to 65, but not because he missed out on awards – he was mad because it meant he didn’t get to play in all 82, which is what he always tries to do for his teammates and fans. You know the only thing he wants is a ring!”
While Cunningham’s collapsed lung is an unusual injury, it’s believed to have resulted from in-game contact, whereas Edwards missed multiple games earlier in the season due to a toe infection.
Wolves Notes: Edwards, McDaniels, Reid, Nuggets Series https://t.co/ZIj2S74abF pic.twitter.com/W6iUiC6xv9
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 17, 2026
