Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards. Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Timberwolves All-Star benched after he 'lost track of time'

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 3/5/24

Minnesota Timberwolves shooting guard Anthony Edwards "lost track of time" ahead of the team's Monday night home game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

It led to him coming off the bench for the first time in over three years, just 17 games into his rookie season.

So it appears Anthony Edwards was late to the court for opening tip so Nickeil Alexander-Walker is starting in his place.
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) March 5, 2024

Yeah he goes through a warmup routine in the back. He must’ve really thought they wouldn’t start without him (or maybe it’s newborn-brain, which I can understand )
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) March 5, 2024

Ant did not have to go No. 2 (I asked). Said he lost track of time. A lot going on for him right now. https://t.co/cwpxmpvLMt
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) March 5, 2024

Monday was Edwards' first game in which he didn't start since Jan. 27, 2021 against the Golden State Warriors. The former No. 1 overall pick was still second on the team in minutes played on Tuesday (35) and finished with 13 points, six assists and four rebounds in a 119-14 victory.

According to an Associated Press and ESPN report, Edwards typically spends most of pregame warmups doing resistance band work outside of Minnesota's locker room. Minnesota was given a delay of game violation ahead of the contest.

The two-time All-Star leads the Timberwolves in points (26.1), steals (1.3) and minutes per game (34.9) and has played in 59 of the team's first 62 contests this season.

Edwards has been one of the most durable players in the NBA since entering the league nearly four years ago.

He played in all 72 games during his rookie season, 72 of the 82 contests during the 2021-22 campaign and 79 of the 82 tilts last season.

Edwards' absentmindedness didn't cost him or the Timberwolves on Monday, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see him out on the court early next time out.

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