The Golden State Warriors are gearing up for Game 2 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, May 8, at 8:30 p.m. ET at Target Center. The Warriors lead the series 1-0 following their 99-88 victory on Tuesday night, where they overcame the loss of Stephen Curry due to a left hamstring strain.
Curry, who had 13 points in just 16 minutes before exiting, is officially listed as out for Game 2. The Warriors will monitor his recovery closely as they look to extend their series lead without their star player.
In contrast to Curry’s absence, Gary Payton II will be available for the Warriors in Game 2. Payton has been playing through a left thumb injury, with the thumb protected by a splint.
The Timberwolves will be without Rob Dillingham for Game 2 due to a right ankle sprain.
The Warriors will attempt to capitalize on Curry’s absence by continuing their defensive strategy, which proved successful in Game 1. Golden State’s zone defense disrupted Minnesota’s offense, holding them to just 5-of-29 from beyond the arc.
Players like Buddy Hield, who scored 24 points in Game 1, and Jimmy Butler, who had 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, will be key for Golden State in this pivotal contest.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves will need a big performance from Anthony Edwards, who posted 23 points and 14 rebounds in Game 1, along with contributions from other key players like Naz Reid, who added 19 points off the bench.
