Minnesota Timberwolves vs
Golden State WarriorsPredictions & Preview

Western Conference Semifinals Even at 1-1 as Timberwolves and Warriors Head to Game 3 in San Francisco: Curry's Absence Shifts Series Narrative - Timberwolves Favored by 5.5 Points.

The Western Conference semifinals between the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves are currently tied at 1-1 as they head to San Francisco for Game 3. With Stephen Curry still unable to play, both teams have had dominant performances, shifting the series narrative significantly. The Timberwolves are the betting favorites, opening at -5 and currently sitting at -5.5. Stay tuned for more insights and predictions on this crucial matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Timberwolves -226 | Warriors +190
• Spread: Timberwolves -5.5 (-110) | Warriors +5.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 200.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Minnesota will win straight-up is 69%.

Minnesota vs Golden State Stats

Minnesota Timberwolves

In Game 2, Minnesota responded with urgency, taking a commanding 13-0 lead and never trailing in a 117-93 victory. Julius Randle led the team with 24 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds, while Jaden McDaniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker also had strong performances. The Timberwolves improved their three-point shooting from Game 1 and forced the Warriors to commit 17 turnovers. With a strong road record, Minnesota enters the next game as a favorite. In terms of power ranking, they are ranked 16 in offense and 5 in defense, with solid shooting percentages and defensive stats.

Golden State Warriors Analysis

The Golden State Warriors are currently ranked 5th in power rankings and struggled in Game 2 due to Stephen Curry's absence from a hamstring injury. Without Curry, the team's offensive identity is in question. In Game 2, they struggled to score and relied heavily on isolation and late-clock shots. Coach Steve Kerr experimented with rotations, with Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis emerging as bright spots. However, the team's perimeter shooting regressed, shooting 28.1% from three. Despite winning the rebounding battle, the Warriors face a tough challenge without Curry against a strong Timberwolves team. Their offensive statistics show room for improvement, especially in their shooting percentages. Their defense remains solid, but they need to find a way to generate more offense in Curry's absence.

Warriors Face Uphill Battle Against Timberwolves Due to Curry's Absence

With the series tied at 1-1 and the absence of Curry until at least Game 6, the offensive capabilities of the Warriors are limited. Coach Steve Kerr is expected to heavily rely on Kuminga and Jackson-Davis, however, Golden State will require a more assertive Jimmy Butler and a rebound performance from Buddy Hield in order to remain competitive. The Timberwolves possess superior defensive length and improved shooting confidence, giving them the advantage, particularly if Alexander-Walker continues his resurgence and Edwards maintains an aggressive approach. While Minnesota may not exhibit the same proficiency from beyond the arc on the road, their solid defense offsets Golden State's struggles without Curry. If the Timberwolves manage to avoid scoring droughts witnessed in Game 1, they stand a good chance of securing a victory at Chase Center. With their size, depth, and defensive prowess, Minnesota is positioned to win Game 3 unless Golden State discovers a new offensive leader at home. My prediction is in favor of the Timberwolves.

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