NBA playoffs: Wolves rout 'Curry-less' Warriors 117-93 to tie series 1-1
The Minnesota Timberwolves evened their Western Conference Semifinals series against the Golden State Warriors at 1-1, securing a comfortable 117-93 victory in Game 2. The Warriors played without injured star Steph Curry, struggling offensively as the Timberwolves' defense controlled the game, setting the stage for a tied series heading to San Francisco.
Minnesota Timberwolves delivered a dominant performance in Game 2 of their Western Conference Semifinals, comfortably defeating the Golden State Warriors 117-93 at Target Center to tie the series at one game apiece. A major factor in the Warriors' struggles was the absence of their star guard, Stephen Curry, who was ruled out with a Grade 1 hamstring strain. Without Curry, the Warriors' offense was "lackluster" and presented a "serious offensive problem." They went scoreless for the first five minutes and managed only 15 points in the first quarter, never truly finding a rhythm.
Read More ›
Coach Steve Kerr experimented with his lineup, giving Jonathan Kuminga (18 points) a longer look and bringing Trayce Jackson-Davis (15 points, 6 rebounds) into the game, both of whom showed some potential and are likely candidates for the Game 3 rotation. Jimmy Butler finished with 17 points but will need to be a more aggressive offensive force if the Warriors are to win without Curry.
The Timberwolves' victory was primarily built on their strong "defensive energy," described as their "meal ticket" in this series with Curry sidelined. They effectively limited the Warriors' offense, keeping them from getting anything going. Jaden McDaniels was particularly effective defensively against Butler, while Mike Conley and Nickeil Alexander-Walker helped contain Buddy Hield. Offensively for Minnesota, Julius Randle led the way with 24 points and a postseason career-high 10 assists.
Read More ›
Anthony Edwards scored 20 points, playing through a left ankle sprain suffered in the second quarter, confirming he was "Feeling great" postgame. Nickeil Alexander-Walker also had a significant game with 20 points, including four three-pointers, breaking out of a recent shooting slump and providing crucial scoring punch. The Timberwolves also improved their team three-point shooting in Game 2 (41%) after struggling in previous games.
Despite a brief ankle scare for Edwards in the second quarter, from which he returned, the Timberwolves controlled the game, relying on their defense and balanced scoring to secure the comfortable win. The series now shifts to San Francisco for Game 3 on Saturday, with the Warriors needing to find answers for their offensive woes in Curry's absence if they hope to regain the series lead.
