Warriors vs. Timberwolves Game 2 Preview (May 8, 2025)
Golden State has the jump on Minneapolis with a Game 1 win, holding the Timberwolves off with under 90 points, and they did it without Steph Curry for most of the second half. Curry is out for Game 2 with a left hamstring strain, and Minnesota is desperate to avoid heading to San Francisco down 0–2 in Game 2.
- Series Status: Warriors lead 1–0 after a 99–88 win
- Date & Time: Thursday, May 8, at 8:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
- Broadcast: TNT, truTV, and Max
Game 1 Recap
Golden State found a way, even without Steph.
Curry exited early on, but the Warriors didn’t fold. Buddy Hield came through with 24 points, Jimmy Butler stepped up, and Draymond Green chipped in offensively and defensively to anchor a complete team effort.
Minnesota did have some chances, but their offense never got going.
The Timberwolves couldn’t buy a bucket from deep, finishing 5-for-29 from beyond the arc. Anthony Edwards ended up with 23 points, but a slow first half set the tone for a night that just felt off from the start for the Wolves.
Key Storylines
Game 2 has a few big questions, but one of them has been answered.
From Curry’s health to Edwards’ response to a forgettable opener, below is what’s looming largest heading into the night.
- Stephen Curry’s Injury: Curry is officially out for Game 2, so the Warriors will have to lean even harder on role players and veterans (Draymond and Butler got this).
- Anthony Edwards’ Response: Edwards wasn’t himself in Game 1—and he knows it. Expect him to come out aggressive.
- Golden State’s Depth: Hield, Butler, and Green need to stay on top of their games. Game 1 proved they can do it without Steph, but can they do it again?
Betting Odds & Trends
The odds have shifted since Curry’s absence was officially announced, and here’s where they sit via DraftKings:
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
Warriors | +10.5 (-108) | +370 | Over 201.5 (-110) |
Timberwolves | -10.5 (-112) | -485 | Under 201.5 (-110) |
Yesterday Betting Odds
- Spread: Timberwolves -9.5
- Moneyline: Warriors +350, Timberwolves -450
- Over/Under: 202.5 points
Trends
- The Warriors are 4–2 against the spread in their last six games against Minnesota.
- The Timberwolves are 7–0 straight up in their last seven home games.
Best Bets
With Curry being sidelined, below are some betting angles that we think are worth considering:
- Warriors +9.5: Even with Curry’s absence, Golden State showcased their depth in Game 1. The spread offers value if their supporting cast can do it again.
- Under 202.5 Total Points: Game 1 was a defensive battle, and without Curry, the pace may slow down even further, making the under pretty appealing.
- Jimmy Butler Over 20.5 Points: Butler had 20 points in Game 1 and will likely take on a larger scoring role with Curry out.
Final Thoughts: Can the Wolves Bounce Back?
Our Prediction
Timberwolves 104, Warriors 98: Minnesota ties the series, but Golden State covers the spread, and the total stays under.
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Game 2 is pivotal for Minnesota. After a lackluster offensive performance in Game 1, the Timberwolves have to capitalize on Curry’s absence to even up the series.
Here’s what will matter in Game 2:
- Warriors’ Adjustments: Without Curry, Golden State will rely heavily on Butler, Hield, and Green to generate offense.
- Timberwolves’ Opportunities: Minnesota has to improve its shooting and take advantage of the Warriors’ altered lineup.
Betting Recap
- The +9.5 spread for Golden State has possible value if they can keep the game a close one.
- The under is still a strong consideration given the defensive nature of Game 1 and Curry’s absence.
