Date: May 6, 2025
Time: 8:30 PM CDT
Venue: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
Broadcast: TNT
Series Overview
The Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves meet in the Western Conference semifinals after both teams pulled off first-round upsets. The No. 6-seeded Timberwolves eliminated the Los Angeles Lakers in five games, while the No. 7-seeded Warriors survived a grueling seven-game battle against the Houston Rockets.
This matchup marks the third-ever playoff series between a No. 6 and No. 7 seed, making it a rare battle between lower-seeded teams fighting for a spot in the Western Conference Finals.
Team Breakdown & Key Players
Minnesota Timberwolves (No. 6 Seed, 49-33 Record)
- Last Game: Defeated the Lakers 103-96 in Game 5 to close out the series.
- Key Players:
- Anthony Edwards – Averaged 26.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists in the first round. He will be the focal point of Minnesota’s offense.
- Julius Randle – Provided 22.6 points per game in the first round, proving to be a key secondary scorer.
- Rudy Gobert – Anchors the defense, leading the Timberwolves in rebounds and blocks.
Golden State Warriors (No. 7 Seed, 48-34 Record)
- Last Game: Won Game 7 vs. Houston, 103-89, behind Buddy Hield’s 33-point performance.
- Key Players:
- Stephen Curry – The Warriors’ leader, averaging 24.5 points and six assists this season.
- Jimmy Butler – Acquired at the trade deadline, Butler has been a difference-maker, averaging 19.2 points in the playoffs.
- Draymond Green – Defensive anchor and emotional leader, crucial for slowing down Minnesota’s attack.
Game 1 Storylines & Predictions
1. Can the Warriors Overcome Minnesota’s Size?
Golden State struggled against Houston’s big lineup, and now they face an even tougher challenge with Rudy Gobert, Julius Randle, and Naz Reid. The Timberwolves’ rebounding advantage could be a deciding factor.
2. Anthony Edwards vs. Stephen Curry – The Star Battle
Edwards has been dominant in the playoffs, but Curry’s championship experience could be the difference-maker. Edwards has openly stated he wants to face the Warriors in the playoffs, making this a highly anticipated showdown.
3. Will Golden State’s Depth Hold Up?
The Warriors’ bench, led by Buddy Hield and Brandin Podziemski, must step up against Minnesota’s deep rotation. If Golden State’s role players struggle, Minnesota could take control early.
Game Odds
Golden State Warriors 209
Minnesota Timberwolves – 7.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, May 5, 2025
