In a crucial playoff match, the Golden State Warriors suffered a disappointing 117-93 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2, missing their star performer, Stephen Curry, due to injury. Draymond Green’s patience wore thin during the game, leading to his fifth technical foul of the playoffs after he elbowed Naz Reid in response to a foul. His mounting frustration was evident, particularly when he openly confronted referee Tony Brothers during a timeout, risking another technical.
Curry, observing from the sidelines in street clothes, became concerned about Green’s fiery temperament. He attempted to intervene by approaching the scorer’s table to de-escalate the situation and guide his teammate back to the bench.
The stakes are high for Green; accumulating seven technical fouls in a single playoff season leads to an automatic suspension. Additionally, he is close to facing a suspension due to flagrant foul points. Minnesota’s Julius Randle shone in the game, contributing 24 points and 11 assists, effectively exploiting the Warriors’ weakened lineup to equalise the playoff series.
Anthony Edwards added 20 points for the Wolves, who dramatically improved their three-point shooting compared to their Game 1 performance, going 16 for 37. The Warriors struggled early, falling behind as the Wolves opened the game with a 13-0 run. It wasn’t until Jimmy Butler hit a three-pointer that the Warriors finally got on the board, recording their lowest first-quarter score (15 points) in playoff history since 2016.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr employed a broad rotation, utilising 14 players, with Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis standing out, having success shooting a combined 14 for 17 from the field. Despite putting in a valiant effort, the Warriors struggled offensively without Curry, who not only provides scoring but also draws defensive attention, thereby allowing other shooters to thrive.
The Timberwolves’ defence, characterised by its athleticism and length, made it markedly more challenging for the Warriors’ other shooters, which included Buddy Hield and Brandin Podziemski, leading to a tough outing for the Warriors. As the series continues, the absence and potential return of Curry will be pivotal for the Warriors’ strategies moving forward.