Draymond Green spoke at length following the Warriors’ Game 1 victory over the Timberwolves, offering detailed insight into the team’s emotions and adjustments after Stephen Curry exited early with a strained hamstring.
Green said he initially didn’t realize Curry had suffered an injury, describing how the team was unaware of the severity for several minutes of game time. “I just saw him limping a bit,” Green recalled. “I said, ‘You good?’ He was like, ‘I’ll be back.’ And he just kept it pushing.”
Even after learning it was a hamstring strain, Green emphasized the team’s composure, pointing out that Curry had already helped build a cushion. “Robin turned into Batman,” Green said, referencing players like Buddy Hield and others who stepped up in Curry’s absence.
Green praised the depth and energy from the bench, highlighting Gui Santos’ effort during his short stint. “Three minutes and 43 seconds, and he was hustling all over the glass,” Green said. “Just causing—wearing those guys down.”
When asked about Curry’s mood at halftime, Green said the star guard was deflated but remained engaged. “He was just in the locker room… continuing to show that support, saying what he saw going on in the game.”
Defensively, the Warriors held Minnesota to 0-for-15 from three in the first half, and Green credited that to their effort and adherence to the game plan. “We flew around… we knew that we didn’t want to give them uncontested looks.”
Golden State also dominated the offensive glass, finishing with 18 offensive rebounds. “Just being relentless,” Green said. “We got out-rebounded pretty badly in the Houston series… but we can try to cut that back.”
Green hit four three-pointers in the game but was quick to downplay comparisons to Curry. “Don’t put that on me… I just wanted to come out, be aggressive, and take open shots.”
With Curry’s status uncertain, Green acknowledged his own role may shift. “I may have to handle a little more… but we got Jimmy [Butler], who is incredible at making plays for people.”
He also spoke about the bond between Butler and Hield, noting their competitiveness even amid joking interactions. “They went at it in a huddle today… but they have a great dynamic.”
Reflecting on the development of younger teammates, Green said it’s been rewarding to guide players through their first playoff runs. “It’s always a treat watching guys go through it their first time.”
He also had high praise for reserve guard Pat Spencer, who stepped into the rotation. “Pat is a damn good basketball player… one of the toughest guys on this team… he brings that same energy every single day.”
As the team looks ahead to Game 2, Green said the locker room remains focused despite the potential absence of their star point guard. “We won’t panic… we know we got a guy that can make that first domino fall, and that’s Jimmy.”
