Why did Anthony Edwards not play in 2025 All-Star Game? Latest injury update on Timberwolves superstar's absence

Anthony Edwards was named to his third NBA All-Star Game this season and was drafted by Kenny Smith under the new format. Edwards was not named in the team's starting lineup, which was a surprise for many. He ended up not playing as Kenny's Young Stars lost 41-32 to Chuck's Global Stars.

But why did the Minnesota Timberwolves not play in the All-Star Game on Sunday night? The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski reported that Edwards was dealing with a sore groin, so he was unable to enter the game for Kenny's Young Stars.

Edwards told reporters that if he had more time to warm up before the game, he would have played, as per Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press. He also dismissed any worries from Timberwolves fans, as he expects to play once the season resumes after the All-Star break.

ESPN and Andscape senior NBA writer Marc J. Spears added that Anthony Edwards was also experiencing a cold. Spears acknowledged that the Minnesota Timberwolves star was dealing with a sore groin, while sources told him Edwards was feeling under the weather.

Edwards was the fourth player to miss this year's All-Star Game following Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Davis and LeBron James. Antetokounmpo was ruled out before the All-Star break due to a calf injury, with Trae Young being named as his replacement.

Meanwhile, Davis suffered an adductor injury in his first game for the Dallas Mavericks. His teammate Kyrie Irving was chosen to replace him, while James was ruled out just a few hours before the All-Star Game.

It led to some outrage, given how fans spent their hard-earned money to buy expensive tickets for the festivities and events. Anthony Edwards will likely get criticized online as well for not trying to participate in the game.

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Anthony Edwards comments on potential 1-on-1 tournament in next year's All-Star Game

Anthony Edwards comments on potential 1-on-1 tournament in next year's All-Star Game. (Photo: GETTY)

One of the new concepts suggested by many that needs to be added in next year's All-Star Game is a 1-on-1 tournament. There are a lot of great 1-on-1 players in the NBA, so it could be something that can be considered to help revitalize the All-Star Weekend.

Speaking to NBA TV about the potential of the 1-on-1 tournament, Anthony Edwards agreed that Kevin Durant might be the player to beat if the competition happens.

"Kevin Durant, for sure," Edwards said. "Anytime you're playing somebody where, like, any shot that they take is a good shot. ... Like, sometimes for me, if my body's a certain way, I'm like, 'Ah, that's a bad shot for me,' because I'm not used to it. I'm not accustomed to being like this. I want to be comfortable when I shoot."

Unrivaled introduced the concept during its inaugural season and has been a hit for basketball fans. It was won by Napheesa Collier, who defeated Aaliyah Edwards in the final.