Game 1: Timberwolves vs Warriors, May 7, 9:30 AM
Game 2: Timberwolves vs Warriors, May 9, 8:30 AM
Game 3: Warriors vs Timberwolves, May 11, 8:30 AM
Game 4: Timberwolves at Warriors, May 13, 10 AM
Regular Season Series: Golden State 3-1
Key Insights
Both teams had a slow start to the season. The Minnesota Timberwolves eventually found their rhythm, winning 40 of their final 63 games. Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors surged after acquiring Butler in the trade deadline, finishing 23-7 down the stretch. Both teams also ranked among the top 10 teams in defensive rating, with Minnesota finishing seventh and Golden State close behind in eighth. Offensively, however, the Timberwolves held a clear advantage—they boasted the league’s eighth-best offensive rating during the regular season, while the Warriors are in the middle at 16.
The Timberwolves have established themselves as a formidable playoff team, reaching the Western Conference Finals last season and dispatching the Lakers with three consecutive wins. The Golden State, on the other hand, struggled against the size and physicality of Sengun and Adams, and now faces an even deeper and more versatile frontcourt in Minnesota. Unlike the Rockets, who lacked a reliable scorer and closer, the Warriors must now contend with a Timberwolves squad that ranks fourth in three-point shooting and is led by Anthony Edwards, who ranks fourth in scoring and leads the league in three-pointers made.
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Players to Watch
Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards
Edwards has been a complete force in the playoffs, averaging at least 25 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 steal over each of the last three seasons. He’s been making a name for himself with his outstanding play and has eliminated a number of future Hall of Famers in the last two seasons like Kevin Durant, Nikola Jokic and, most recently, LeBron James. In five games against the Lakers, he did everything, leading the team in scoring, three-point shooting, defensive rebounding and playmaking, racking up 31 assists with just six turnovers.
Julius Randle
Randle had struggled in his past playoff runs, but turned it around against the Lakers, averaging 22.6 points per game with close to 50/40/85 shooting splits. He also contributed consistently across the board and played strong defense against James. With the way he’s playing, he should be poised for another strong series.
Rudy Gobert
Gobert had been a consistent double-double threat in all of his 9 playoff appearances. He was also exceptional in their Game 5 win against the Lakers, dominating with 27 points and 24 rebounds on a highly efficient 80% shooting. With the Warriors lacking the personnel to slow him, expect him to remain a steady threat in the interior.
Golden State Warriors
Jimmy Butler
Jimmy is a perfect fit for the Warriors, giving them a major boost in crucial areas— especially with his interior scoring, ability to draw fouls, and elite defense. He’s also known to elevate his game in the playoffs, averaging at least 26 points with strong all-around numbers over the past two postseasons, and put in on full display against the Rockets. They’ll need him to maintain his elite level of play in order for them to win the series.
Stephen Curry
Curry scored 30 points in all three of the Warriors’ wins over the Timberwolves this season, and in five of his last six games—all without Jimmy Butler. With another offensive threat now in the mix, Minnesota will face an even tougher challenge in slowing him down. While he hasn’t been at his best offensively against the Rockets due to a thumb injury, he still managed to average 24 points, shooting nearly 40% from three and 90% from the free-throw line.
Draymond Green
While the Lakers did struggle against the Wolves playing small, they didn’t have someone like Green, who can defend and help run the floor. Green was also a major factor in defense, averaging 5 rebounds and 3 stocks against the Rockets.
Matchups to Watch
Green vs Gobert
These two players have a history of not getting along, with tensions escalating in recent years—most notably when Draymond Green put Rudy Gobert in a headlock during a game. Green will play a crucial role in the Warriors’ defense, doing what he does best: protecting the paint and trying to get under Gobert’s skin. On the other hand, Gobert should be a major presence in the interior, especially as one of the league’s top offensive rebounders.
Curry vs Alexander-Walker/DiVincenzo
Curry has consistently exploited the Wolves’ defense, using his off-ball movement and his ability to shoot off screens. Edwards can’t chase him all night so Minnesota will need Nickeil Alexander-Walker and DiVincenzo to set the tone defensively—fighting through screens, staying attached, and applying physical, disciplined pressure to disrupt Curry’s rhythm.
DFS Tip
Butler and Edwards would be the best choices for the Captain and Vice-Captain positions, as they are the most effective scorers with strong all-around games. Naz Reid will also be a crucial piece due to his rebounding and three-point shooting while McDaniels could also have some breakout performances. The shooting guard position offers plenty of options, but Buddy Hield and Donte DiVincenzo should provide the strongest contributions.
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