The Golden State Warriors opened their Western Conference semifinal series against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a 99-88 victory in Game 1 at Target Center. Coming off a grueling seven-game series against the Houston Rockets, in which they took two of four on the road, the Warriors showed resilience despite a significant setback. Stephen Curry, their star sharpshooter, suffered a strained hamstring in the second quarter and was ruled out of the game, with the team later announcing that he would miss at least until Game 5, if the series goes that far.
The Timberwolves, on the other hand, had nearly a week to rest after dispatching LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers in five games. While Curry’s absence is a blow, the Warriors’ hopes remain high thanks to the incredible chemistry between Buddy Hield and Jimmy Butler, whose connection has been a bright spot and key factor in navigating these Curry-less games.
Hield and Butler’s Chemistry Shines in Viral Video
This video from the postgame press conference after Game 1 captures the undeniable camaraderie between Buddy Hield and Jimmy Butler, showcasing their playful dynamic that has quickly become a cornerstone for the Warriors. Since Butler joined the team, only the Celtics and the Thunder won more games during the regular season. Most importantly, his relationship with Hield has been stellar. It is often marked by lighthearted banter, but it is rooted in mutual respect. Teammates like Draymond Green have noted how the two push each other to improve their games, a dynamic that’s proving vital with Curry sidelined. In the clip, their banter is on full display, reflecting a bond that translates to on-court success.
Together, they combined for 44 points in Game 1, with Hield leading the way with a game-high 24 points – part of a 57-point outburst in his last two games that has made him an unsung hero for Golden State. Butler, who has stepped up as the team’s leader in Curry’s absence, draws on his experience in Miami, where he led the Heat to two NBA Finals as the primary option, and now he’s tasked with leading the Warriors to their championship goal.
What Lies Ahead in the Series
Despite the Game 1 win, the Warriors face an uphill battle against the Curry-less Timberwolves, especially considering the physical toll of the previous series. Golden State had just one day to rest before Game 1, while Minnesota’s long layoff led to rustiness – they shot a dismal 5-for-29 (17.2%) from three-point range and were outrebounded 51-41 by the smaller Warriors. Golden State’s elite defense, anchored by Draymond Green, was a major factor in the victory, holding the Timberwolves under 90 points for the third time in eight playoff games.
Going forward, the Warriors will look to replicate their defensive intensity in Game 2 while giving Curry more rest. Butler and Hield’s chemistry, paired with Green’s defensive prowess, gives them a fighting chance, but Minnesota’s size and athleticism will make this series a stern test when it returns to the Chase Center.
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