In a thrilling start to the Western Conference semifinals, the Golden State Warriors faced off against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center on Tuesday night, May 6, 2025. The Warriors, fresh off a decisive Game 7 victory over the Houston Rockets, were looking to continue their momentum against a Timberwolves team that had shown promise in their first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers.
However, the night didn’t start smoothly for the Warriors, as Buddy Hield inadvertently created a spectacle before the game even began. Hield, who had just scored an impressive 33 points in the previous game, made headlines for the wrong reasons when he stepped onto the court wearing black and blue shorts instead of the team's black and yellow uniform. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr was forced to call a timeout just seconds into the game to allow Hield to change into the correct attire. "Who among us hasn't worn the wrong clothes to work?" Hield joked after the incident, shrugging it off with humor.
Despite the wardrobe malfunction, Hield struggled to find his rhythm early in the game. He finished the first half with a mere two points, going 0-for-3 from the field. Fortunately for the Warriors, they were able to build a substantial lead thanks to the contributions of their other players. Draymond Green stepped up significantly, contributing 18 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, while Jimmy Butler added 20 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists to the cause.
The Warriors’ defense was a key factor in their early success against the Timberwolves. Utilizing a zone defense, they stifled Minnesota’s offensive efforts, forcing the Timberwolves into a dismal shooting performance. Minnesota struggled mightily from beyond the arc, managing to shoot just 5-for-29 from three-point range and committing 16 turnovers throughout the game. The Timberwolves missed their first 16 attempts from three-point territory, not connecting until midway through the third quarter.
Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves’ star guard, was under scrutiny after a lackluster performance. Although he led his team with 23 points and 14 rebounds, his shooting was inefficient, as he went 9-for-22 from the field. Fans expressed their frustrations, particularly with Edwards’ first-half performance, where he scored only one point. Alongside him, Naz Reid added 19 points, and Julius Randle contributed 16, but it wasn't enough to match the Warriors' offensive output.
As the game progressed, the Warriors continued to capitalize on the Timberwolves’ struggles. They maintained their defensive pressure and executed their offensive plays effectively, leading to a comfortable double-digit advantage. The Warriors’ ability to adapt and overcome the initial hiccup with Hield showcased their depth and resilience as a team.
In the locker room, the atmosphere was a mix of relief and excitement. Hield, despite his slow start, was still a vital part of the team’s chemistry. He had been a starter for the past four games and was praised for his defensive tenacity during the pregame press conference. Throughout the regular season, Hield played all 82 games, extending his consecutive games played streak to 166, which speaks volumes about his durability and commitment to the team.
As the game wore on, the Warriors’ lead grew, with the final score reflecting their dominance. Although the Timberwolves showed flashes of potential, they were unable to recover from their early deficits. The Warriors’ experience in high-pressure situations proved invaluable, especially after their recent playoff battle against the Rockets.
Looking ahead, the Warriors will aim to build on this momentum as they continue their playoff journey. With the series now in their favor, they are poised to make a significant impact in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves will need to regroup and address their offensive woes if they hope to compete effectively in the remainder of the series.
This matchup not only highlights the competitive nature of the playoffs but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting series. As both teams adjust and adapt, fans can expect thrilling basketball in the upcoming games. The Warriors, with their blend of experience and skill, seem ready to take on the challenges ahead, while the Timberwolves will look to find their rhythm and bounce back from this tough loss.
