Timberwolves vs. Warriors: Round 2 Playoff Preview

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As the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare to face the Golden State Warriors in Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs, the series looks like a challenge for the Wolves. Golden State won 3 of the 4 regular-season matchups, and while Minnesota was able to get one win, the Warriors' dominance from beyond the arc and their high-paced offense will present a tough test. In this post, we’ll break down the key takeaways from the regular season and explore what Minnesota needs to defeat the Warriors.

Catch more analysis and discussion on Harrison Talks Pod where we dive deeper into this series.

Series Summary: Warriors Take Control in Regular Season

Golden State enters the series with the edge after winning 3 of the 4 matchups in the regular season. While Minnesota claimed the first victory, 107–90 on Dec 6, the Warriors bounced back to win the next three games, showcasing their explosive offense and ability to close games.

Game Recap:

  • Dec 6, @ GSW: Timberwolves 107, Warriors 90 – Key Stat: +16 Rebounds

  • Dec 8, @ GSW: Timberwolves 106, Warriors 114 – Key Stat: Allowed 19 3PM by GSW

  • Dec 21, vs GSW: Timberwolves 103, Warriors 113 – Key Stat: Shot 41.9% FG

  • Jan 15, vs GSW: Timberwolves 115, Warriors 116 – Key Stat: Lost by 1 point, gave up 17 3PM

Key Takeaways: What Minnesota Needs to Fix

1. Three-Point Defense Woes

Golden State’s three-point shooting has been a major strength in this matchup. In three of the four games, the Warriors hit over 17 threes. The Timberwolves struggled to contest perimeter shots, and this has been a glaring issue. Minnesota's best shot at winning is limiting Golden State’s deep range, which could disrupt their offensive flow.

2. Rebounding – The Key to Slowing Down Golden State

One of the few areas where Minnesota succeeded was on the boards. Their +16 rebound margin in the Dec 6 win was a crucial factor in that victory. However, in all three losses, they were out-rebounded by a significant margin (as much as -7), allowing the Warriors to get extra possessions and control the tempo. If Minnesota can dominate the boards again, they have a better chance at slowing down Golden State’s fast pace.

3. Turnovers – A Recipe for Disaster

In all three of their losses, the Timberwolves committed 14+ turnovers, which led to easy transition points for Golden State. Given the Warriors' ability to capitalize on turnovers, Minnesota must clean up their ball-handling and avoid giving up easy baskets in transition.

4. Offensive Efficiency

Minnesota’s shooting efficiency was another problem. They hovered around 41-45% in all three losses, which simply isn’t enough against a potent team like the Warriors. Even in their best shooting performance (45.6% on Dec 8), they still lost. A more efficient offensive output, especially late in games, will be necessary for Minnesota to compete.

X’s and O’s: The Game Plan for Minnesota

Control the Tempo

Golden State thrives when the game is played at a fast pace. Minnesota’s best chance of success lies in slowing things down and controlling the tempo. The Timberwolves need to focus on a physical, slower game that limits Golden State’s opportunities for fast-break points and transition shooting.

Rebound and Be Physical

Minnesota’s size can be an advantage. Rudy Gobert’s presence on the boards can help the Timberwolves neutralize Golden State’s shooters and disrupt their rhythm. If Minnesota can establish a strong rebounding presence, they will have a better chance of competing.

Limit Turnovers

Reducing turnovers will be vital. The Timberwolves must be patient, control possessions, and avoid giving Golden State any easy points off turnovers. Keeping the ball in their hands will be critical to staying competitive throughout the series.

Key Storylines to Watch

Rudy Gobert vs. Draymond Green

There’s a long-standing tension between Gobert and Green, dating back to their past interactions. Green has made several comments about Gobert, and their matchup on the court could carry extra weight this series. Gobert’s rebounding and rim protection will be critical to Minnesota’s success.

Jimmy Butler’s Return to Target Center

Butler's return to Minnesota with the Warriors will be interesting, especially with his history with the Timberwolves. How much playoff Jimmy do we get in this round?

Steph Curry’s Leadership

While Curry’s scoring is always important, his leadership and ability to control the offense go beyond the box score. Curry orchestrates Golden State’s flow, and his ability to get others involved, particularly in clutch moments, will be crucial for the Warriors.

Series Prediction: Can Minnesota Pull Off the Upset?

Golden State enters the series as the clear favorite, and the regular season results show why. Minnesota’s path to victory lies in their ability to limit turnovers, control the tempo, dominate the boards, and contest Golden State’s three-point shots. If they can clean up their offensive execution and show more consistency, the Timberwolves have the tools to make this series competitive. However, it will take near-perfect basketball to topple a team as potent as the Warriors.

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