The Golden State Warriors won the opening game of the second playoff round against the Minnesota Timberwolves 99-88, despite an early injury to superstar Stephen Curry. While Minnesota was desolate from the three-point line, Buddy Hield once again shone for the visitors.
Golden State held its breath in the second quarter of the game when Stephen Curry grabbed his thigh after a jump shot and had to leave the court shortly afterwards. The diagnosis: a strained thigh, and his return in Game 2 is uncertain. By that point, Curry had already scored 13 points in just 13 minutes. His absence was a major blow. But the team responded remarkably calmly.
Hield takes on the role of leader
Buddy Hield once again showed that he can deliver on the big stage. After his strong performance in the decisive seventh game against Houston, he didn’t miss a beat in Minnesota: 24 points, five out of eight three-pointers. The sharpshooter was the linchpin of the offense. Jimmy Butler also impressed with 20 points, eleven rebounds, and eight assists.
Draymond Green was also a real X-factor. Normally known more as a defensive stabilizer, the veteran sank four three-pointers in the first half and finished with 18 points. The Warriors also benefited from their deep rotation, with a total of twelve players seeing action.
Three-point debacle for the Timberwolves
It was a completely different story for the Timberwolves: Minnesota had a disastrous night from the three-point line. Naz Reid didn’t hit his first three-pointer until the 16th attempt, by which point the team was already well behind. Overall, the Wolves only made five of 29 shots from outside (17.2%).
All-Star Anthony Edwards was one of the few bright spots for the home side. With 23 points and 14 rebounds, the young guard fought hard against defeat, but left a lot on the table, especially in the first half. Naz Reid (19 points) and Julius Randle (16) at least reached double figures, but were unable to turn the game around.
Warriors make their mark
With the away win, the Warriors have made their mark in the best-of-seven series, and that without their most important player. If Curry is out for longer, it will be a real test of character for Steve Kerr’s team. For Minnesota, a reaction must follow in Game 2.
