Game 4 Preview: Timberwolves at Warriors – Can Minnesota Continue the Upset?

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May 12, 2025 | Chase Center, San Francisco, CA

The Timberwolves have won two straight and now lead their series with the Warriors 2-1. Can Minnesota keep their momentum going and put Golden State on the ropes by notching a second straight game on the road?

The Minnesota Timberwolves have seized control of their Western Conference Semifinal series against the Golden State Warriors, leading 2-1. With Game 4 approaching, the Timberwolves have a golden opportunity to put their opponents on the ropes by claiming another victory on the road. But standing in their way are the defending champions, who, despite the absence of superstar Stephen Curry, have fought hard to stay in the series.

Timberwolves Look to Build on Momentum

The Minnesota Timberwolves entered Game 3 with a sense of urgency, determined to capitalize on Stephen Curry‘s injury and seize control of the series. After a sluggish performance in Game 1, followed by a dominant showing in Game 2, they faced the challenge of taking their momentum on the road to face the Golden State Warriors.

Minnesota delivered a masterclass in resilience during Game 3. Julius Randle led the charge with a phenomenal performance, recording a playoff triple-double in a game where the Timberwolves faced extended offensive struggles. Randle’s leadership kept the team steady while others worked to find their rhythm. He finished with 10 assists, 10 rebounds, and 21 points—an all-around effort that played a pivotal role in Minnesota’s 102-97 victory.

Edwards Delivers Big Time

While Randle was the catalyst for much of the Timberwolves’ offense, it was Anthony Edwards who stole the show when it mattered most. Edwards, who had been battling ankle issues, erupted in the second half, especially during the critical fourth quarter. The Timberwolves’ young star poured in 13 points in the final period, including a pair of highlight-reel dunks that sent the Chase Center crowd into silence.

Edwards finished the game with 36 points, proving that he has fully embraced the spotlight in his first postseason appearance. His ability to score efficiently from deep (three 3-pointers in the fourth quarter) and attack the basket with force made him an unstoppable force when Golden State’s defense struggled to contain him.

As the Timberwolves look to extend their lead in Game 4, Edwards’ performance will likely be a key factor. If he can continue his aggressive play, Minnesota has a strong chance of going up 3-1 and placing the Warriors in a precarious position.

Golden State Warriors: Next Man Up in Curry’s Absence

For the Golden State Warriors, their championship pedigree faces a major test without their star player, Stephen Curry. After winning Game 1 in convincing fashion, the Warriors dropped the next two games, both played without their leader. Curry will miss Game 4 due to a strained left hamstring and is scheduled for re-evaluation in the coming days. However, he might not return in time to save the Warriors from a near-impossible hole.

In Game 3, the Warriors leaned heavily on their role players in a desperate attempt to secure a win. Jimmy Butler III, who has taken over as the team’s de facto leader during Curry’s absence, led the way with 33 points. Known for his versatile scoring, Butler served as Golden State’s most reliable offensive weapon throughout the night. Despite his efforts, the Warriors couldn’t stop the Minnesota Timberwolves from executing a decisive late-game run.

Butler shot efficiently, but Golden State’s perimeter attack faltered. The Warriors sank only 10 of 23 three-pointers—their lowest total of the postseason. Their shooting woes worsened as the Timberwolves clamped down defensively in the second half, limiting the Warriors’ ability to find clean looks at the basket.

Jonathan Kuminga Steps Up

Golden State did get an unexpected boost from Jonathan Kuminga in Game 3. Kuminga, who had been relatively quiet in the postseason until this point, exploded for a career-high 30 points, showcasing his potential as a future star. With Curry sidelined, Kuminga stepped into a more prominent role and took full advantage of his increased minutes. His ability to attack the basket and knock down shots from beyond the arc made him an immediate threat.

Kuminga’s breakout performance in Game 3 was crucial for Golden State as they looked for any silver lining during Curry’s absence. The young forward credited his improvement to the leadership of players like Butler and Curry, both of whom attract so much defensive attention that it opens up opportunities for other players like him.

“It’s just about being ready when your number is called. Jimmy Butler, Steph Curry, they all draw so much attention that you can sneak in and make an impact,” said Kuminga after the game.

The Big Question: Can the Warriors Win Without Curry?

The biggest question heading into Game 4 is whether Golden State can defeat the Timberwolves without Curry. Throughout the season, the Warriors have relied on Curry’s scoring, playmaking, and leadership. His absence has put immense pressure on the team, and while players like Butler and Kuminga have stepped up, they have not been able to replicate Curry’s impact.

In Game 4, Golden State will need another all-hands-on-deck effort from its role players. Kuminga’s performance will need to be more than just a one-off, and the Warriors will need to get more consistent contributions from the likes of Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, and Kevon Looney. Green, in particular, will need to assert himself on both ends of the floor and ensure that the Warriors don’t get overwhelmed by Minnesota’s size and athleticism.

Key Matchups to Watch in Game 4

Julius Randle vs. Draymond Green: Randle’s triple-double performance in Game 3 was one of the biggest reasons Minnesota came away with the win. Green will be tasked with slowing down Randle, but the Warriors’ defensive anchor will need help from his teammates to prevent Randle from continuing to dominate.
Anthony Edwards vs. Jimmy Butler III: Edwards’ explosive fourth-quarter performance gave Minnesota the edge in Game 3. Butler will need to stay aggressive and continue to create offense for the Warriors, while also preventing Edwards from taking over the game.
Minnesota’s Perimeter Shooting vs. Golden State’s Defense: The Timberwolves shot the ball well from beyond the arc in Game 3, especially in the second half. Golden State’s defense, especially on the perimeter, will need to improve in Game 4 to prevent Minnesota from getting hot from deep once again.
Golden State’s Rebounding vs. Minnesota’s Inside Game: The Timberwolves’ size and physicality have been an issue for the Warriors throughout the series. Golden State will need to be more physical on the boards and limit second-chance opportunities for Minnesota if they want to keep the game close.

Game 4 Predictions

With Curry out for the Warriors and Minnesota riding high on momentum, Game 4 has the potential to be a pivotal one. If the Timberwolves can capitalize on Golden State’s weakened lineup and continue their strong play from beyond the arc, they have a good chance of taking a 3-1 series lead. However, if the Warriors can get a big performance from their role players and defend at a higher level, they may be able to level the series at 2-2 and keep their championship hopes alive.

The stage is set for what promises to be another thrilling playoff battle. The Timberwolves have the chance to break the Warriors’ spirit, while Golden State has an opportunity to prove they are more than just a one-man show.

Game Details & How to Watch

Time: 10:00 PM ET
Date: Monday, May 12, 2025
Venue: Chase Center | San Francisco, CA
Broadcast: NBA TV, ESPN, Streaming via ESPN+
ESPN+: Available for streaming with a subscription.
FuboTV: Offers a free trial and includes ESPN in its package.
NBA League Pass: Provides live and on-demand access to NBA games, including playoff matchups.
NBC Sports Bay Area: For viewers in the San Francisco Bay Area, the game will be broadcast locally.
NBA League Pass: Offers international streaming options, though blackout restrictions may apply.
NBA App: Available on iOS and Android devices for live streaming and game updates.
YouTube: For live game commentary and highlights, you can watch the following video: