Warriors and Timberwolves Clash in Crucial Game 3 of NBA Playoffs

San Francisco, CA – The Golden State Warriors host the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 3 of their NBA Western Conference semifinal series on Saturday evening, with the series tied at one game each. The decisive matchup will start at 8:30 p.m. ET at the Chase Center.

Golden State faces a significant challenge as two-time league MVP Stephen Curry remains sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained in Game 1. His absence is felt deeply, as the Warriors struggled offensively in Game 2, suffering a 117-93 loss. They scored just 15 points in the first quarter and shot 28% from three-point range.

In contrast, the Timberwolves showcased a dominant performance in Game 2, led by Julius Randle, who scored a game-high 24 points, along with 11 assists and seven rebounds. Anthony Edwards also excelled with 20 points despite an injury scare during the game. The Wolves hope to capitalize on Curry’s absence, entering Game 3 as road favorites with a spread of -5.5 points.

The Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga was a bright spot in the lineup, contributing 18 points off the bench. However, the team missed Curry’s crucial skills on both ends of the court. The Warriors’ playoff net rating dropped significantly when Curry was not on the floor, underscoring his importance.

As the stakes rise heading into Game 3, the Warriors look to reclaim home-court advantage and even the series, while the Timberwolves aim to take a commanding 2-1 lead. The matchup presents an exciting opportunity for both teams as they battle for a place in the next round of the playoffs.