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Timberwolves vs Warriors Game 5: Can Minnesota Close Out Without Curry?

NBA access_alarms2025-05-15 16:09:21 visibility9 text_decrease title text_increase

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Series Showdown at Target Center

The Timberwolves-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>Minnesota Timberwolves stand one win away from their first Western Conference Finals appearance since 2004 as they host the Warriors-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>Golden State Warriors in Game 5 tonight (May 14, 9:30 PM ET). With a 3-1 series lead and Stephen Curry sidelined by a hamstring injury, Minnesota looks to capitalize on home court advantage at Target Center.

Timberwolves vs. Warriors Game 5: Can Minnesota Close Out the Series Without Curry?

Three Key Factors

1. Life Without Curry

Golden State's offense has struggled without their two-time MVP, scoring under 100 points in three of four games. Klay Thompson (18.2 playoff PPG) and Andrew Wiggins must step up to fill the scoring void. Minnesota's top-ranked defense, anchored by Rudy Gobert's 10.3 rebounds per game, continues to exploit Golden State's limited perimeter threats.

2. Edwards' Star Power

Anthony Edwards has emerged as Minnesota's playoff leader, averaging 26.6 points and 8.6 rebounds. His explosive fourth-quarter performances have become must-see TV, including a 36-point Game 3 showcase. Partnered with Karl-Anthony Towns' inside-out game (22.4 PPG), this duo presents matchup nightmares for Golden State's smaller lineup.

3. Experience vs Momentum

The Warriors' championship DNA remains dangerous, with Draymond Green's defense creating transition opportunities. However, Minnesota's physical dominance (outrebounding GS by 7.5 per game) and 21-4 home record suggest this Cinderella story might have a midnight curfew.

Game Plan Breakdown

Minnesota's Keys:

Control paint scoring (52.8% playoff FG in restricted area)
Limit live-ball turnovers (Warriors average 18.2 points off TOs)
Contain Thompson's catch-and-shoot opportunities

Golden State's Path:

Force small-ball tempo (15+ fast break points)
Get Jonathan Kuminga involved early (58% FG last two games)
Hold Minnesota under 12 three-pointers

Where to Watch

Date: Wednesday, May 14
Time: 9:30 PM ET
TV: TNT, TruTV
Stream: MAX, NBA League Pass
Venue: Target Center, Minneapolis

Final Prediction

Timberwolves 108 - Warriors 101
Minnesota's young stars will overcome Golden State's veteran grit, closing the series behind Edwards' 30+ point performance and Gobert's defensive dominance.