Why Anthony Edwards isn't playing tonight for Timberwolves with injury news originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

On the one hand, the Minnesota Timberwolves are in a commanding position. They hold a 3-1 series lead over the Denver Nuggets in the opening round of the NBA's Western Conference playoffs.

On the other hand, they just lost Donte DiVincenzo to the season with injury, and Anthony Edwards is sidelined, too.

Clearly, that Edwards absence is a big one. He's Minnesota's leader both in his play and with his energy.

Without Edwards, the Timberwolves are a totally different time.

It should be said that in Game 4, Ayo Dosunmu scored 43 points off the bench, looking ready to fill-in well for Edwards.

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Edwards isn't playing on Monday night in Game 5 against the Nuggets due to injury.

He has a bone bruise and a hyperextension in his left knee.

Testing revealed the good news that Edwards had avoided ligament damage, but he'll have to work his way back.

Edwards is "expected to miss multiple weeks," according to ESPN's Shams Charania.

They'll likely have to win at least a few playoff games with Edwards out, maybe more, to still be playing by the time he's ready to return to the floor.