NBA Playoffs: Minnesota Wins Game 2 Despite Edwards Injury; Curry's Absence Felt

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Post on May 09, 2025

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NBA Playoffs: Timberwolves Steal Game 2 Despite Edwards Injury; Warriors Miss Curry's Spark

The Minnesota Timberwolves pulled off a stunning victory in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Golden State Warriors, winning 129-121 despite a significant injury to star shooting guard Anthony Edwards. The win evens the series at 1-1, injecting renewed life into Minnesota's playoff hopes and highlighting the significant impact of Stephen Curry's absence on Golden State.

The game was a rollercoaster from tip-off, a testament to the high-octane, playoff-level intensity. The Warriors, visibly affected by Curry's sprained foot, struggled to maintain their usual offensive rhythm. While Jordan Poole and Klay Thompson combined for 51 points, their efforts weren't enough to overcome the Timberwolves' balanced attack and relentless defensive pressure.

<h3>Edwards' Injury Casts a Shadow, but the Team Rallies</h3>

Anthony Edwards, who had been a dominant force in Game 1, suffered a left-foot injury in the third quarter, forcing him to leave the game. The exact nature of the injury remains unclear, with reports suggesting it could range from a minor sprain to something more serious. His absence created a void in Minnesota's offense, but the team displayed impressive resilience.

• Rudy Gobert's Dominance: Center Rudy Gobert stepped up in a major way, showcasing his defensive prowess and contributing a crucial double-double. His interior presence limited Golden State's offensive rebounding opportunities and forced them into contested shots.
• Team Effort on Offense: With Edwards sidelined, the Timberwolves' offense wasn't reliant on a single star. Players like Jaden McDaniels, Karl-Anthony Towns, and even role players stepped up, demonstrating a depth of talent that many had underestimated. Their unselfish play and efficient shooting proved crucial in securing the win.
• The Edwards Question Mark: The severity of Edwards' injury is undoubtedly the biggest storyline heading into Game 3. His status is uncertain, and his potential absence would significantly impact Minnesota's chances of advancing in the playoffs.

<h3>Curry's Absence Weighs Heavily on the Warriors</h3>

Stephen Curry's absence loomed large over the Warriors' performance. His playmaking ability and scoring prowess are integral to their offensive strategy, and his lack of presence was glaringly obvious. While the supporting cast showed flashes of brilliance, they couldn't consistently generate the same offensive firepower without their leader on the court. The Warriors’ offensive efficiency dipped considerably, and their normally impenetrable defense felt more vulnerable.

• Poole and Thompson's Herculean Efforts: Jordan Poole and Klay Thompson shouldered the offensive burden, each delivering impressive performances. However, their efforts alone were insufficient to overcome the Timberwolves’ determined effort.
• The Need for Adjustments: The Warriors will need to adjust their game plan in Curry’s absence. Relying on other players to step up and share the scoring load will be critical in the upcoming games. Expect Steve Kerr to explore different offensive strategies to compensate for Curry's absence.
• The Urgency for a Swift Recovery: For the Warriors, getting Curry back on the court as soon as possible is paramount. His return will undoubtedly shift the momentum of the series dramatically.

<h3>What's Next?</h3>

Game 3 promises to be another high-stakes encounter. The Timberwolves, buoyed by their Game 2 victory, will aim to capitalize on their momentum. However, the Warriors, desperate to regain control of the series, will undoubtedly come out fighting. The status of Anthony Edwards and the return of Stephen Curry will significantly influence the outcome of the remaining games in this captivating first-round matchup. The series is far from over, and fans can expect more thrilling basketball in the days to come. Stay tuned for updates on the injury status of both stars as the series continues.