Minneapolis, MN – May 8, 2025 — Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors tips off tonight at the Target Center at 8:30 PM ET. After dropping Game 1 in a 99–88 loss, the Timberwolves are in a must-win scenario, and the Warriors are navigating uncharted waters—without Stephen Curry, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
🩺 Stephen Curry Injury Update: What It Means for the Warriors
Golden State’s playoff momentum took a major blow when Stephen Curry exited Game 1 with a left hamstring strain. Diagnosed as a Grade 1 injury, Curry is expected to be sidelined for at least a week, potentially missing multiple critical games in this Western Conference Semifinals series. His absence not only affects the Warriors’ offensive rhythm but also puts pressure on the supporting cast to carry the load. For full details on the injury and its implications, check out the official NBA report on Curry’s condition.
🔥 Timberwolves Need an Offensive Reset
The Timberwolves’ offense stalled in Game 1, particularly from long range. Minnesota missed its first 16 three-point attempts and finished the game shooting just 5-for-29 (17.2%) from beyond the arc.
Anthony Edwards, their offensive anchor, struggled under pressure and heavy coverage. For Game 2, head coach Chris Finch is expected to adjust the offensive sets to free up space for Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns to operate, especially in pick-and-roll scenarios and mid-range spacing.
“We were too hesitant in Game 1,” Finch stated in Wednesday’s press conference. “We need to trust the ball, take cleaner looks, and apply defensive pressure earlier.”
🔎 Key Matchups to Watch
1. Jimmy Butler vs Jaden McDaniels
McDaniels is Minnesota’s premier wing defender, and he’ll be tasked with slowing down the hot-handed Butler. Expect a physical, fast-paced battle here.
2. Buddy Hield vs Anthony Edwards
If Edwards finds his rhythm, he could quickly swing momentum. Hield, however, remains a threat from the arc and will test Minnesota’s perimeter defense.
3. Rebounding Battle: Gobert vs Green
Rudy Gobert, the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, has to own the paint against Draymond Green and Kevon Looney to control second-chance opportunities.
📊 Analytics & Prediction
According to ESPN Analytics, the Timberwolves hold a 56.5% probability to win Game 2. With Curry out, oddsmakers are slightly favoring Minnesota at home, especially with the crowd at Target Center poised to ignite every momentum swing.
However, Golden State has playoff experience and championship DNA—expect them to grind it out even in Curry’s absence.
Predicted Score:
Timberwolves 104 – Warriors 98
📺 Where to Watch
- Time: 8:30 PM ET
- Network: TNT | truTV | Max
- Location: Target Center, Minneapolis
Conclusion:
With or without Steph Curry, this Timberwolves vs Warriors Game 2 matchup promises physicality, drama, and high-stakes basketball. The Timberwolves must bounce back and protect home court to even the series, while the Warriors are looking to prove they can win gritty without their leader. Either way, fans are in for a thriller tonight.
