The Minnesota Timberwolves decisively defeated the Golden State Warriors 117-93 in Game 2 of their playoff series, leveling the matchup at one game apiece. The Warriors mostly hit the wall without their best player, Stephen Curry. He’s expected to miss at least the rest of this week with a left hamstring strain. The team’s absence was sorely felt. Indeed, they faltered in the opening frame, recording their lowest playoff point total since Game 6 of the 2016 NBA Finals.
That’s not really it either The Timberwolves clearly capitalized on the Warriors’ weaknesses. Julius Randle was the one who set the tide and roll through this one scoring 24 points and recording 11 assists. Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Anthony Edwards were instrumental, both putting up 20 points. The Timberwolves notably improved their offensive efficiency, tripling their three-point output from Game 1, which proved crucial in their victory.
He was instrumental in creating a culture of accountability and developing winning momentum for the Timberwolves. He hit a crucial three-pointer that broke a 13-0 run by the Warriors, allowing the Timberwolves to regain control of the game early on. The collective shooting performances from the team’s long range shooters were stellar, led by freshman અરમૈન લૉકમેન (Armain Lockman). Naz Reid, with Donte DiVincenzo and Alexander-Walker, was part of a collective effort that saw Minnesota sink 10-of-22 attempts from beyond the arc.
Although it came in a loss, there were some other positives for the Warriors. Jonathan Kuminga continued to be a valuable spark plug off the bench, but it wasn’t nearly enough to double up on the Timberwolves’ offensive explosion. Draymond Green’s frustrations finally boiled over in a game against the Timberwolves. He elbowed Naz Reid in return. He picked up his fifth technical foul of the playoffs.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr admitted the difficult road they face without Curry.
“We have to figure out what we’re going to be able to do in this series without Steph.” – Steve Kerr
The series now shifts to Minnesota with Game 3 on Friday. Each team will hope to build on the winning momentum they found following their most recent meeting. The Timberwolves have demonstrated their capability to adapt and respond under pressure, while the Warriors must regroup and find a way to compensate for Curry’s absence.
