The Golden State Warriors overcame the shock of losing Stephen Curry to a hamstring injury to take Game 1 of their Western Conference semi-final series, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 99-88 on Tuesday at the Target Center.
In a low-scoring, defensive battle, the Warriors leaned on a balanced offensive effort and sharp three-point shooting to outlast a Timberwolves squad that struggled from beyond the arc. Minnesota hit only five of 29 attempts from three, with star Anthony Edwards managing just one triple on an otherwise quiet 23-point night.
Golden State, however, connected on 18-of-42 from deep, with Buddy Hield leading the way with 24 points, including five threes. Jimmy Butler contributed 20 points, while Draymond Green added 18 and anchored the defense.
The victory was dampened by Curry’s injury, as the Warriors’ franchise star exited in the second quarter clutching his left hamstring. He did not return and is expected to undergo an MRI on Wednesday. Head coach Steve Kerr expressed doubts about Curry’s availability for Game 2 on Thursday.
“We want Steph back — it’s hard playing without that man,” Butler said in a post-game interview. “He’s our best player, and the game is much easier when we’ve got him.”
Despite the setback, the Warriors showed resilience and depth, taking a 1-0 lead in the series and sending a strong message that they remain contenders — even in the face of adversity.