• Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Golden State Warriors 117-93 in Game 2, tying the Western Conference Semifinals series 1-1.
• Stephen Curry's absence due to a hamstring strain significantly impacted the Warriors' offensive performance and rotation strategy.
• Julius Randle's standout performance with 24 points and 11 assists, along with Nickeil Alexander-Walker's improved shooting, were crucial for the Timberwolves' victory.

The Minnesota Timberwolves secured a decisive 117-93 victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals, leveling the series at 1-1. The Timberwolves capitalized on Stephen Curry's absence, who was sidelined with a Grade 1 hamstring strain. Minnesota established an early lead and maintained control throughout the game, showcasing improved defense and balanced scoring. Anthony Edwards' return from an ankle injury and Julius Randle's dominant performance were pivotal in the win. The series now moves to San Francisco for Game 3.

• What: The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Golden State Warriors 117-93 in Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals, tying the series 1-1.
• Who: Key players include Julius Randle, Anthony Edwards, Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Timberwolves), and Jonathan Kuminga and Jimmy Butler (Warriors). Coaches Chris Finch (Timberwolves) and Steve Kerr (Warriors) are also central figures.
• When: The game took place on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday in San Francisco.
• Where: The game was held at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The Timberwolves' victory in Game 2 was a statement win, demonstrating their ability to capitalize on Curry's absence and adjust their defensive intensity. Julius Randle's performance was a significant factor, showcasing his playmaking abilities and scoring prowess. The Warriors' struggles without Curry highlight their offensive challenges and the need for other players like Jimmy Butler and Jonathan Kuminga to step up. The Timberwolves' improved 3-point shooting and defensive pressure were key to their success. The series now shifts to San Francisco, where the Warriors will need to make significant adjustments to regain control.

Feeling great, yeah, feeling great. We watched (Game 1) film yesterday and we seen it wasn’t just we didn’t make shots. It was more so our defensive pressure and intensity. We didn’t bring it. So we knew we had to bring it today.

Experimental… and I still would like to win, but I think the biggest thing is don’t start off in a hole like we did tonight. Another game, maybe it could have ended up a little bit differently, but it’s hard to climb out of a hole.

This one I was really worried about, actually. I mean, there’s lots of ways being an elite athlete pays off and being able to shake those things off, certainly is one of them. But I was really planning on not seeing him the rest of the game, to be honest with you.

The Timberwolves' Game 2 victory signifies a turning point, leveling the series against a weakened Warriors team. Stephen Curry's absence due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain sustained in Game 1 presents a significant scoring and leadership void for Golden State, potentially sidelining him for at least a week, impacting Games 3 and 4 in San Francisco and possibly Game 5. Julius Randle's standout performance, marked by 24 points and 11 assists in Game 2, underscores his crucial role in Minnesota's offense, complementing Anthony Edwards' scoring. The Timberwolves' defensive intensity, which they identified as lacking in Game 1, was visibly improved, stifling the Warriors' offensive rhythm and holding them to their lowest first-quarter playoff score since 2016. To counter Curry's absence, the Warriors will need elevated performances from players like Jimmy Butler and Jonathan Kuminga, alongside a consistent offensive strategy to avoid predictable plays. Minnesota's ability to exploit their size advantage and maintain defensive pressure, particularly with the contributions of players like Nickeil Alexander-Walker off the bench, will be key to sustaining their momentum as the series shifts to San Francisco. The Warriors' championship experience will be tested as they seek to adapt and find offensive solutions without their star point guard, while the Timberwolves aim to capitalize on their defensive prowess and Randle's playmaking to gain a series lead on the road.