NBA Playoffs Game 2 Preview: Warriors vs. Timberwolves — Can Golden State Thrive Without Steph Curry?

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Warriors vs. Timberwolves Game 2.

Minneapolis, MN. (WE) — The Golden State Warriors took a surprise 1-0 lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves in their Western Conference semifinal series, but all eyes are now on Game 2—where they’ll be forced to navigate the challenge without Stephen Curry, who suffered a left hamstring strain during Game 1. The NBA postseason stakes are higher than ever, and this Thursday night at the Target Center, we’ll find out if Golden State can continue its playoff push without its two-time MVP leader.

Game 1 Recap: Warriors Stun Timberwolves

In Game 1 of the Warriors vs Timberwolves series, the Golden State Warriors pulled off a gutsy 106–97 road victory, fueled by sharpshooting from Buddy Hield and a gritty all-around performance from Jimmy Butler. The Minnesota Timberwolves, who hadn’t played since eliminating the Los Angeles Lakers on April 29, came out flat after a five-day layoff and never fully recovered.

Stephen Curry’s injury occurred just 13 minutes into the game, by which point he had already scored 13 points. A collective effort from Golden State’s supporting cast secured the win, but their ability to replicate that success without Curry for a full 48 minutes remains uncertain as the Warriors vs Timberwolves showdown continues in Game 2.

Steph Curry’s Absence: History and Implications

Curry’s absence is a major blow. The Warriors are 104-51 in playoff games with Curry and just 8-3 without him. Though those eight wins show some resilience, the current Timberwolves team may present the toughest non-Curry playoff challenge Golden State has faced.

Curry has not missed a postseason game since Game 1 of the 2018 Western Conference Semifinals against the New Orleans Pelicans. His hamstring injury is expected to sideline him for at least one week, meaning he will also miss Game 3 in San Francisco.

Head coach Steve Kerr remains confident in his team’s ability to adjust.

“Every year the playoffs are about adapting — whether it’s a game plan, an injury, a lineup. We’ve done this before. We’re confident we can do this again,” Kerr said postgame.

Jimmy Butler’s New Role

The February trade that brought Butler from the Miami Heat to Golden State continues to pay dividends. In Game 1, he was nearly flawless, tallying 20 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists, and two steals. Without Curry, Kerr has made it clear that Butler is the team’s offensive cornerstone.

“We’re absolutely going to rely on Jimmy like we have when Steph has been off the floor,” said Kerr. “We can’t just rely on him creating every single shot. We’ve got to execute.”

Butler’s leadership, shot creation, and tenacity on both ends could be the difference-maker in Game 2.

Can the Timberwolves Bounce Back?

For the Timberwolves, Game 2 is now a must-win. After falling behind by as many as 23 points in Game 1, Minnesota showed some fight late but ran out of time. Anthony Edwards, who was electric in the first-round series against the Lakers, struggled with just one point in the first half and finished 9-of-22 from the field.

“I just look at it like every last one of us has got to play better individually, including myself,” said Edwards.

The Timberwolves were also let down by their backcourt. Mike Conley was scoreless (0-for-5 shooting), while Donte DiVincenzo, acquired in the offseason, shot just 3-of-11.

Julius Randle: A Key Factor

Minnesota’s Julius Randle scored 18 points in Game 1 but only managed three rebounds in 30 minutes. Randle himself acknowledged the need to bring more intensity.

“I can’t come away from this game playing 30 minutes and have three rebounds. I’ve got to play better,” Randle told reporters.

A more physical Randle could open up opportunities for Edwards and Conley to find rhythm on offense.

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Golden State’s X-Factors: Buddy Hield and Brandin Podziemski

With Curry out, floor spacing and perimeter shooting become even more critical. Hield’s 24-point performance in Game 1 kept the Warriors ahead throughout. Brandin Podziemski, however, had a rough outing—shooting just 1-for-7 from the field and 1-for-5 from three-point range.

Kerr believes Podziemski can bounce back and emphasized that the team is motivated to win for Curry.

“I don’t need to give a ‘One for Steph’ speech. Everyone knows. They want to do it for him,” Kerr said.

Betting Odds and Trends

According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Timberwolves opened as 9-point favorites but that line has since grown to -10.5.

Current Odds

  • Spread: Minnesota -10.5
  • Moneyline: Timberwolves -562, Warriors +410
  • Over/Under: 201.5 total points

SportsLine has simulated this matchup 10,000 times using its proprietary projection model. The model projects the total to go Over 201.5, with a predicted total of 205 points. It also favors one side of the spread in nearly 60% of simulations (full picks at SportsLine).

Notable Betting Trends

  • Warriors: 4-5 against the spread in their last 9 games.
  • Timberwolves: Hit the team total Over in 34 of their last 52 games.

Why the Timberwolves Can Cover?

Anthony Edwards is the offensive engine. Across six playoff games this year, he’s averaging 26.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. His last home playoff game featured a dominant 43-point effort against the Lakers.

Julius Randle, despite the Game 1 rebounding issue, has been consistent in scoring and facilitating. His physicality, combined with home-court advantage, gives Minnesota a strong edge.

Why the Warriors Can Cover?

Jimmy Butler has assumed Curry’s leadership role seamlessly. His playoff stat line—18.6 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 5.3 APG—is evidence of his impact.

Buddy Hield is coming off a hot streak, averaging 12.5 points over eight postseason games. His Game 1 performance (24 points, 8 rebounds) shows he can carry a scoring load if needed.

Golden State’s road record is another point of confidence: 27-19 on the road this season (including playoffs).

Key Matchups to Watch

  1. Anthony Edwards vs. Jimmy Butler
    This star-vs-star duel could shape the series. Edwards must be more aggressive early, while Butler must maintain his two-way excellence.
  2. Mike Conley vs. Brandin Podziemski
    The veteran Conley has struggled, while the rookie Podziemski is looking to bounce back. This matchup could tilt the balance of second-unit offense.
  3. Rebounding Battle: Randle vs. Warriors Frontcourt
    Randle’s physicality vs. a Curry-less rebounding unit will be vital. If Minnesota dominates the glass, they’ll control the pace.

What’s at Stake?

A 2-0 lead heading back to San Francisco would put Golden State in a commanding position. For Minnesota, losing both games at home would be catastrophic given Curry’s absence.

Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday, May 10 at the Chase Center in San Francisco.

Game Details: Warriors vs. Timberwolves — Game 2

Key Notes:

  • Stephen Curry (Warriors) is out with a left hamstring strain.
  • Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves) is expected to be fully available.
  • Warriors Lead the Series 1–0 after a surprising road win in Game 1.

Prediction: Who Wins Game 2?

Golden State shocked the Timberwolves in Game 1, but expecting a repeat—especially without Curry—is ambitious. Minnesota will be more focused, less rusty, and fully aware of what’s at stake. Expect Edwards and Randle to lead the charge, with Conley rebounding from his scoreless performance.

However, don’t count out Butler and Hield, especially if Golden State continues its strong perimeter shooting.

Final Score Prediction:
Timberwolves 109, Warriors 103

The Warriors cover the spread, and the total goes over 201.5.

Final Word

Golden State’s resilience has defined this dynasty, and Game 2 offers a new test of that mettle. But for the Timberwolves, Thursday night is about redemption, pride, and momentum. Expect intensity, fireworks, and another epic playoff battle.

1 day ago
6 5 minutes read
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