The Golden State Warriors took a significant step towards the Western Conference finals by defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 99-88 in Game 1 of their semifinal series on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Despite losing star player Stephen Curry to a left hamstring strain in the second quarter, the Warriors showcased their depth and resilience to secure the victory.
Buddy Hield was the standout performer for Golden State, leading the team with 24 points. His impressive shooting form continued as he has now made 14 three-pointers over his last two games, becoming the fifth player in NBA postseason history to achieve such a feat in a two-game span. He joins an elite group that includes fellow sharpshooters Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Damian Lillard, and Desmond Bane, as noted by ESPN Research.
Hield's performance was crucial, especially after Curry's exit, which left a significant void in the Warriors' offensive strategy. Jimmy Butler also contributed significantly to the win, finishing with 20 points and 10 rebounds, just two assists shy of his third career postseason triple-double. Draymond Green added 18 points, rounding out a strong offensive effort from the Warriors.
On the other side of the court, the Timberwolves were led by Anthony Edwards, who scored 23 points. However, his performance was a tale of two halves; he managed to score just one point in the first half before exploding for 22 points in the second. This inconsistency highlighted Minnesota's struggles against the Warriors' defense.
The Warriors have now established a remarkable 21-1 series record after winning Game 1 under head coach Steve Kerr since 2015. The only series loss during this span came in the 2016 NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, underscoring their dominance in early playoff matchups.
As the game progressed, the Warriors demonstrated their ability to adapt and overcome adversity, a trait that has defined their success over the years. The absence of Curry, who is known for his scoring prowess and playmaking ability, could have been a significant setback. However, the team's depth allowed them to maintain control of the game.
Looking ahead, the Warriors will need to continue this momentum as they prepare for Game 2 of the series. The Timberwolves, on the other hand, will have to regroup and find a way to counteract the Warriors' offensive firepower, particularly if they want to even the series at home.
With the playoffs in full swing, the intensity is only expected to increase. Fans can expect more thrilling performances as both teams vie for a spot in the next round. The Warriors' ability to perform under pressure will be tested as they aim to capitalize on their Game 1 success.
In conclusion, the Warriors' Game 1 victory sets the stage for an exciting semifinal series. With key players stepping up and a solid team performance, Golden State looks poised to make a deep playoff run. The Timberwolves will need to adjust quickly if they hope to challenge the Warriors in this tightly contested matchup.
