The wolves howled back in Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals. In that game, the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Golden State Warriors with a final score of 117-93. This victory tied the second-round series at one game apiece as both teams prepared to head back to the Bay Area.
A significant factor in the Timberwolves’ win was the absence of Warriors star Stephen Curry, who was sidelined due to a left hamstring strain. His injury, which would likely keep him out until at least the following week, left the Warriors facing a substantial challenge against the Timberwolves.
Timberwolves Find Their Rhythm
Following a disappointing performance in Game 1, the Timberwolves responded effectively in Game 2, demonstrating a renewed intensity. It’s a change that coach Chris Finch was no doubt pleased to see, after a film session where Finch expressed his dissatisfaction with levels of performance.
A key improvement was their three-point shooting, more than tripling their output from Game 1 by going 16 for 37 from beyond the arc. This improved perimeter scoring, combined with timely defensive plays, helped them establish and maintain a comfortable lead throughout the game.
For those tracking Timberwolves betting trends, this kind of bounce-back performance adds a new layer of intrigue heading into Game 3.
Randle and Edwards Lead the Way
Two prominent players for the Timberwolves were Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards. Randle had a strong game, contributing 24 points and 11 assists. Edwards, despite suffering an ankle injury scare in the second quarter, was able to return to the game and finish with 20 points. He stepped up noticeably after halftime, scoring 13 of his points in the second half.
Crucial Bench Contributions
The Timberwolves also received significant contributions from their bench players. Nickeil Alexander-Walker added 20 points, spearheading a superb performance from the reserves. Alexander-Walker combined with Donte DiVincenzo and Naz Reid to shoot 10 for 22 from three-point range, providing crucial depth and scoring punch that helped secure the victory.
Warriors Struggle Without Curry
Without their primary offensive engine, the Golden State Warriors looked like a “shell of themselves” according to some reports. Head coach Steve Kerr tried out a new lineup, which featured rookie center Quinten Post for added size and spacing, but this combination was rapidly outmatched on the court.
The Warriors’ offense was stifled by the Timberwolves’ long and athletic defense. They started the game in a significant hole, allowing the Wolves to jump out to a 13-0 lead. The team put up their lowest first-quarter score in the playoffs since the 2016 NBA Finals, scoring just 15 points in the opening frame.
Young Players Provide Bright Spots
Despite the overall team struggles, two young Warriors players who had recently been removed from the rotation emerged as bright spots: Trayce Jackson-Davis and Jonathan Kuminga. Jackson-Davis, who had success against the Wolves in the regular season, was productive, recording 15 points, 6 rebounds, 1 block, and 1 steal in only 17 minutes.
Kuminga found his offensive rhythm, finishing with a team-high 18 points on 8-for-11 shooting. He was noted as the only Warriors player not afraid to shoot in the paint.
Butler’s Passivity Sets a Tone
Jimmy Butler scored the Warriors’ first points with a three-pointer, but his performance was unexceptional, finishing with 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. Sources suggest Butler appeared hesitant to prioritize his own shot against the Timberwolves’ defense, possibly limited by a pelvic injury.
He often drove inside but opted to kick the ball out rather than attack the paint, contributing to an impression of ‘passivity’ that seemed to be echoed by many teammates.
Concerns Over Butler’s Health
The perceived hesitation in Butler’s game seemed linked to a possible pelvic injury, suggesting he might not fully trust himself attacking in the paint. This potential limitation could explain why the anticipated return of “Playoff Jimmy” did not materialize in Game 2, impacting the team’s offensive aggression.
Other Players Struggle Offensively
Beyond Butler, other key players like Draymond Green and Buddy Hield were unable to replicate their successful three-point shooting from Game 1. Brandin Podziemski also had a notably quiet performance. Additionally, players like Moses Moody and Quinten Post were unable to provide positive contributions, highlighting the team’s offensive challenges without Curry.
Outlook for the Series
With the series tied 1-1 and heading back to Golden State, the Warriors face significant questions about how to compete without Stephen Curry. Coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the need to figure out a strategy for the series under these circumstances.
The performance of Kuminga and Jackson-Davis in Game 2 suggests they capitalized on the opportunity created by other youngsters’ struggles and will likely see increased roles in Game 3.
The Timberwolves, on the other hand, demonstrated they could replicate their regular-season success against the Warriors and capitalize on the offensive void left by Curry’s absence by improving their shooting and receiving key contributions from multiple players.