The Golden State Warriors pulled off a gutsy 99–88 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals — and they did it without their heartbeat, Stephen Curry, who exited early due to injury. How did Golden State survive the Game 1 West Semis in NBA Playoffs? Why did Minnesota stumble? And what does this mean moving forward?
Let’s break it all down.
Table of Contents
What Happened to Stephen Curry on NBA Playoffs?
Stephen Curry left the game early in the second quarter with what was later diagnosed as a Grade 1 left hamstring strain. He had already put up 13 points in 13 minutes, including a couple of vintage threes and transition layups.
Medical Update: Curry will be re-evaluated in a week. As of now, there’s no firm timetable for his return.
This injury looked like it would shift the series momentum — but Golden State had other plans.
Buddy Hield’s Breakout on NBA Playoffs
With Curry sidelined, Buddy Hield stepped up in a massive way. The sharpshooter:
- Scored 24 points
- Hit 5-of-9 from three
- Grabbed 8 rebounds
- Had zero turnovers
Hield’s scoring came in waves. He hit timely shots during a crucial third-quarter run and gave Golden State the offensive firepower it needed when things were tightening up.
Jimmy Butler’s Calm, Controlled Dominance on NBA Playoffs
Jimmy Butler, known for his playoff poise, added 20 points and 11 rebounds. While not explosive, his calm presence in the fourth quarter helped maintain composure — especially when Minnesota cut the lead to single digits late.
“We knew what we had to do. Steph going down is tough, but we rallied,” Butler said postgame.
Draymond Green’s Two-Way Game in the NBA Playoffs
Often the emotional center of this team, Draymond Green brought vintage energy. He posted:
- 18 points
- 8 rebounds
- 3 steals
- Countless defensive rotations
He even hit a couple of mid-range shots — not his usual game, but crucial in stalling Minnesota’s late defensive surges.
Why the Timberwolves Lost
Despite strong individual performances, Minnesota couldn’t find rhythm.
1. Cold Shooting From Deep
The Timberwolves shot 5-of-29 (17%) from three — a brutal number in any context.
- Anthony Edwards: 1-of-7
- Karl-Anthony Towns: 0-of-4
- Mike Conley: 1-of-6
When Golden State packed the paint and dared them to shoot, Minnesota couldn’t make them pay.
2. Anthony Edwards’ Off Night
Though he finished with 23 points and 14 rebounds, Edwards started 0-for-6 and never looked confident. His drives were forced, and his perimeter shots lacked rhythm. He was visibly frustrated, even forcing a few contested looks late.
3. Weak Second Quarter in the NBA Playoffs Game 1
Golden State outscored Minnesota 24–11 in the second quarter — a game-breaking stretch. With Curry out, it was an opportunity for Minnesota to strike. Instead, they crumbled under GSW’s bench intensity and defensive pressure.
Golden State’s Strategy Without Curry
- Defensive Masterclass: They rotated perfectly, blitzed the pick-and-roll, and stayed connected on switches.
- Controlled Tempo: They avoided rushing shots, even with Curry out. Ball movement remained fluid.
- Bench Energy: Players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody brought hustle and transition points that helped plug the scoring hole.
Stat Sheet Recap
| Team | FG% | 3PT% | REB | TOs | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden State | 45.8% | 38.2% | 47 | 12 | 23 |
| Minnesota | 41.1% | 17.2% | 45 | 14 | 19 |
- GSW outscored Minnesota 36–15 in bench points.
- GSW’s team defense held Minnesota to 88 total points, well below their season average.
What’s Next: NBA Playoffs Game 2 West Semi-finals Outlook
With Curry’s status uncertain for Game 2, the Timberwolves have a golden opportunity to bounce back.
For the Timberwolves:
- Edwards must start hot. His energy sets the tone.
- Towns needs more touches inside. Perimeter settling is killing their efficiency.
- Bench contributions matter. Naz Reid and Kyle Anderson need to step up.
For the Warriors:
- Buddy Hield has to stay hot.
- Chris Paul and Jimmy Butler’s leadership will be key.
- Defense is their best offense. If they keep Minnesota under 100 again, they have a real shot at a 2–0 lead.
Final Thoughts: No Steph, No Problem?
The Warriors showed championship DNA. Even without their best player, they defended like a unit, stayed calm, and executed under pressure. The Timberwolves, meanwhile, missed a critical chance to take control of the series — and now face a mental test going into Game 2.
Game 1 Final Score:
GSW 99 – MIN 88
Series Standing: Warriors lead 1–0
Who wins Game 2? Will the Wolves respond or will the Warriors go up 2–0 without Steph? Drop your take below and follow for Game 2 coverage.