Anthony Edwards Sidelined as Wolves Knock Off Celtics on the Road

If you thought the Boston Celtics had another easy win in store just because Anthony Edwards was sidelined—think again. On March 22, 2026, the Minnesota Timberwolves ended an 18-year drought in Boston with a gritty 102–92 road win at TD Garden, proving that it’s not one player who makes a team, but how the rest step up when it matters most.

Edwards Out, Hyland Up

Anthony Edwards remains out, dealing with lingering right knee inflammation. His absence marked the fourth straight game he missed. Without their three-time All-Star, all eyes turned to Bones Hyland, who delivered just what the doctor ordered: a team-high 23 points, including big shots when it counted most. The Wolves needed someone to fill the offensive void—and Hyland answered with poise.

Breaking the Boston Curse

For the first time since 2005, the Wolves left Boston with a win. That alone felt monumental. The Celtics, riding a four-game winning streak, were seemingly unstoppable at home. They had few injuries to complain about—nothing major beyond limited availability of Nikola Vucevic—while Minnesota was walking into one of the NBA’s most daunting venues minus their leading scorer. Boyle’s performance, though eye-catching, pales next to the significance: Minnesota showed up, fought, and finally beat Boston on the road.

Team Effort: From Naz Reid to Defense

Naz Reid, who had been quiet much of the game, erupted in the fourth quarter—scoring eight straight points during a pivotal 0–16 run that turned the tide in favor of Minnesota. Hyland’s scoring and Reid’s late-game burst were enough to help seal the deal. Meanwhile, the Wolf pack’s defense held strong. Boston had its fair share of looks, but the Wolves’ rotation and hustle made sure they couldn’t attack easily or get into rhythm.

What This Means for Wolves—and Celtics

• Minnesota proved it has the depth to win without Edwards—Hosford stepping up, Reid and other role players showing they won’t disappear in pressure moments.
• Boston, despite its lofty reputation, looks vulnerable without total offensive dominance. The Celtics couldn’t close the gap once the Wolves went on their run late.
• Playoff implications could be shifting—this win boosts Minnesota’s confidence and standing in the West; Boston must find consistency before the postseason gauntlet begins.

Looking Ahead: Where to Watch, What’s Next

The Boston-Timberwolves rivalry continues with matchups on national broadcasts scattered across NBC, Peacock, ABC, Prime Video and NBA TV. Team records: Timberwolves are currently 43–28, Celtics 47–23—each scrambling for seeding and home-court edge.

Recovery Watch

Edwards’s status remains in flux. His knee inflammation hasn’t allowed him to return yet, and he’s officially ruled out against some upcoming games. Bones Hyland in the meantime has earned more run—now more than just a spark off the bench. Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo—others are being asked to carry more of the load, which could build resilience for the stretch run.

Celtics Repercussions

Boston must regroup. Strategy-wise, they’ll need more bench play, better defensive rotations, and smarter shot selection—especially when their opponents are intent on pulling back from the edge. Even great teams can get exposed when one star is out and the rest step up.

All told, this was more than just a W—it was a statement. The Wolves are dangerous, even without their leader. And Boston might have learned that superiority must be earned, not assumed.