The Minnesota Timberwolves leveled their Western Conference semi-final series against the Golden State Warriors at 1-1 with a commanding 117-93 victory in Minneapolis. Without Stephen Curry, sidelined by a hamstring injury from game one, the Warriors struggled to match Minnesota’s intensity. Julius Randle powered the Timberwolves with 24 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds, while Anthony Edwards contributed 20 points and nine rebounds. Nickeil Alexander-Walker provided a spark off the bench, scoring 20 points, including four three-pointers, as five Wolves players reached double figures.
Minnesota’s improved defense, a focal point after their game one loss, set the tone early. They surged to a 25-7 lead in the first quarter, leaving Golden State playing catch-up. Despite Edwards briefly leaving with an ankle scare in the second, the Timberwolves held a 56-39 advantage at halftime. The Warriors mounted a third-quarter rally, led by Jonathan Kuminga’s 18 points and Jimmy Butler’s 17, cutting the deficit to seven. However, Minnesota responded with a decisive 20-5 run to close the quarter, building an 85-65 lead that Golden State couldn’t overcome.
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Without Curry’s lethal three-point shooting, the Warriors lacked firepower, and coach Steve Kerr waved the white flag, pulling his starters with four minutes left. Edwards credited the win to a sharper defensive effort, noting the team’s lackluster intensity in game one. The Timberwolves’ ability to regroup and dominate the final frame showcased their depth and resilience. As the series shifts to game three, Minnesota looks to build on this momentum, while Golden State faces uncertainty with Curry’s status. The stage is set for a thrilling continuation of this playoff showdown.
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