The Minnesota Timberwolves Seize Game 2 with Steph Curry Out: A Post-Curry Warriors Struggle
Golden State Warriors face setback in absence of Steph Curry as Minnesota Timberwolves even the playoff series
In the absence of Steph Curry, the Minnesota Timberwolves seized the initiative against the Golden State Warriors, clinching a decisive 117-93 victory in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals. The Timberwolves dominated right from the get-go, scoring an impressive 13-0 run to kick things off, and it took Golden State almost five minutes to register their first points.
The lead quickly escalated, peaking at a daunting 22-point advantage midway through the second quarter. Although the Warriors attempted a spirited comeback, narrowing the deficit to seven in the third quarter, their hopes of a win were swiftly extinguished as they embarked on a four-and-a-half-minute scoring drought, effectively ending any chances of victory.
Steve Kerr's Post-Game Assessment
Warriors coach Steve Kerr acknowledged their loss, attributing it to a lapse in composure, stating, "We made a really spirited run, got it to seven, and then we just kind of lost a little bit of composure" [Reuters]. He further explained that the team gave up a couple of uncontested three-pointers following a timeout, which effectively sealed their fate. Kerr acknowledged the invaluable learning experience this game offered and expressed optimism about the team's ability to adapt and progress without Curry.
Minnesota Standouts and Key Contributions
Julius Randle led the charge for the Timberwolves, posting an impressive game-high 24 points, seven rebounds, and 11 assists. Anthony Edwards, who injured his ankle in the second quarter but returned to the court, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker both chipped in with 20 points apiece. Edwards emphasized the team's focus on defensive intensity after reviewing footage from Game 1, highlighting their lack of pressure as a primary issue in their Game 1 loss [Reuters].
Warriors Rotation Shake-Up
Golden State coach Kerr opted for a 14-man rotation in an attempt to dissect the implications of Curry's absence and identify feasible strategies for the series. Jonathan Kuminga led the Warriors off the bench with a team-high 18 points, while Jimmy Butler added 17 points to the total. Meanwhile, Trayce Jackson-Davis contributed 15 points from the bench.
Golden State's Long Road Ahead
Curry will be reassessed after Game 4, scheduled for May 13. Depending on his recovery, he may potentially return for Game 5 (May 14), and the Warriors will need to find a viable rotation in his continued absence. Kerr acknowledged the need to develop innovative scorings solutions in order to compensate for Curry's loss [NBA].
As the series shifts to San Francisco for Game 3 on Saturday, the Warriors face a formidable challenge in regrouping and staging a comeback against a relentless Timberwolves squad.
- Steve Kerr knew that their four-and-a-half-minute scoring dribble during Game 2 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, espcially following a timeout, was a crucial factor in their 117-93 loss.
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, along with fellow teammates Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards, registered impressive performances in the NBA game, contributing 20 points each to the Timberwolves' victory.
- In the coming days, the Golden State Warriors are expected to register STEph Curry for further assessment after Game 4, and his recovery will play a significant role in deciding if he can return for Game 5.
- The smallest player on the court for the Warriors, Jonathan Kuminga, made a notable impact, leading the team off the bench with a team-high 18 points as the team adjusts to Steph Curry's absence.
