Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards was putting up some of the best numbers of his career before Tuesday's news. Through four games, he averaged 33.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists while shooting 48% from the field. He even scored 47 points in 41 minutes against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday despite dealing with knee pain.
Now Edwards is scheduled for arthroscopic surgery on his right knee Thursday and could miss around two months. A more definitive return timeline should come after the procedure. Edwards missed a career-high 21 games last season while dealing with knee issues, so managers should make every effort to stash him, even in leagues without an injured reserve spot.
LaMelo Ball should see the biggest increase in offensive responsibility. The offense will run through him more often, giving him additional opportunities to score and create for teammates. Ball's usage and assist potential should increase, although opposing defenses can now devote more attention to stopping him.
Jaden McDaniels should also see more shots, while Jonathan Kuminga (rostered in 54.6% of ESPN leagues) could take on additional scoring responsibility. Kuminga has averaged 11.5 PPG, 5.8 RPG and 2.0 SPG in 29.8 MPG this season. I like him more in points leagues because his free throw shooting can hurt teams in category-based formats.
Ayo Dosunmu (63.4% rostered) is the first player I'd check on the waiver wire. He's the favorite to move into the starting lineup and averaged 18.7 points and 7.3 rebounds in nine starts for the Wolves last season. Dosunmu averaged 33.5 minutes in those starts. Even if he doesn't reach those marks, a significant increase in playing time would make him worth rostering in all formats.
Terrence Shannon Jr. (8.7%) is another priority, particularly in 12-team leagues. He's averaged 13.0 PPG and 2.5 triples in just 22.3 MPG through four games. More playing time could make him a reliable source of scoring and 3-pointers. Bones Hyland (1.0%) is worth considering in leagues with 14 or more teams. He averaged 11.8 PPG, 3.3 APG and 2.3 triples across 20 games without Edwards last season, although his minutes aren't guaranteed.
To bring everything together, Dosunmu should be the top priority on waivers, followed by Kuminga, then Shannon in 12-team leagues, and Hyland in deeper formats.