The Golden State Warriors are gearing up for a pivotal Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night, May 10, 2025, at the Chase Center. With the series tied at one game apiece, both teams are looking to seize control and gain a crucial advantage as they head deeper into the playoffs.
In a surprising turn of events, the Warriors managed to steal Game 1 on the road despite the absence of their superstar point guard, Stephen Curry, who exited the game due to a hamstring injury. However, the tides turned dramatically in Game 2, where the Warriors faltered without their leader, suffering a lopsided 117-93 defeat to the Timberwolves, who leveled the series.
As the Warriors return home for Game 3, they face the daunting challenge of continuing their playoff run without Curry, who is expected to be sidelined until at least Game 6 after suffering a Grade 1 left hamstring strain. Head coach Steve Kerr has been forced to rethink his strategy, experimenting with various lineups to compensate for Curry's absence.
In Game 2, Kerr's lineup adjustments included increased roles for Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis, both of whom had been on the fringes of the rotation for most of the postseason. Kuminga, in particular, stepped up impressively, scoring a team-high 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting while also grabbing five rebounds in 26 minutes off the bench. His performance marked his highest scoring output since April 3, 2025, and a much-needed spark for the Warriors' offense.
“Honestly, I came out for the first couple of minutes, and I went back in and feel like the confidence just came back,” Kuminga said after the game. “Pretty much everybody else had to step up — just went out there and tried to compete, and I think just everything fell in line.”
With Curry sidelined, Kerr acknowledged the necessity of finding a new formula for success. He emphasized Kuminga's importance in that plan, stating, “There's no Steph. It's a completely different team. Everything has to be about finding a new formula, and JK is absolutely a part of that formula.” Kerr's confidence in Kuminga could be pivotal as the Warriors look to regain their footing in the series.
Trayce Jackson-Davis also made significant contributions in Game 2, scoring 15 points and pulling down six rebounds. His performance, alongside Kuminga's, is vital for the Warriors as they navigate the challenges of the postseason without their star player.
As the Warriors prepare for Game 3, the atmosphere at the Chase Center is expected to be electric. The home crowd will undoubtedly play a crucial role in supporting the team as they strive to reclaim control of the series. Kerr's decision to incorporate Kuminga and Jackson-Davis into the playoff rotation reflects a strategic pivot aimed at maximizing their potential in the absence of Curry.
Looking ahead, the Warriors will need all hands on deck to take down the Timberwolves. The team’s depth will be tested as they adjust to the new lineup dynamics. With Curry's status uncertain, every game becomes increasingly critical, and players like Kuminga and Jackson-Davis must continue to rise to the occasion.
Kerr's comments highlighted the need for adaptability in the face of adversity: “Everything has to be thrown out the window now without Steph, so everything we've been doing the last month or two has been based on finding a formula that worked and sticking with that formula. We're in a great spot. We're in the second round. We're 1-1 coming home, but there's no Steph, so everything has to be finding a new formula.”
As the Warriors look to bounce back in Game 3, they are reminded of the importance of teamwork and resilience. With the series hanging in the balance, the stakes could not be higher. The Warriors will rely on their younger players to step up and fill the void left by their injured star.
In addition to Kuminga and Jackson-Davis, veteran players will also need to elevate their performances to ensure the Warriors can compete effectively against the Timberwolves. The team’s experience and depth will be tested as they aim to secure a pivotal victory on their home court.
As the clock ticks down to tip-off, all eyes will be on the Warriors as they seek to regain momentum in the series. The excitement builds as fans anticipate how the team will respond to the challenges ahead. Will they rise to the occasion and take a commanding lead in the series, or will the Timberwolves capitalize on their momentum from Game 2?
With the playoffs in full swing, every game counts, and the Warriors will need to bring their A-game to ensure they remain in contention for the championship. The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown, and the Warriors are ready to embrace the challenge.
As the teams prepare for what promises to be a thrilling encounter, the Warriors' ability to adapt and overcome adversity will be put to the ultimate test. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see if Kuminga can continue his scoring surge and if the team can rally together in the absence of their star player.
Game 3 is not just another game; it's an opportunity for the Warriors to showcase their resilience and determination as they strive for playoff glory. The journey continues, and the Warriors are ready to fight for every possession as they aim to take control of the series against the Timberwolves.
