The Golden State Warriors face the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals, a critical matchup for Golden State as they fight to keep their NBA championship hopes alive, as Minnesota holds the lead in the series with a 3-1 advantage.
The Warriors have been without Stephen Curry for the entire series after the superstar suffered a hamstring injury in Game 1. Despite Curry’s absence, Golden State managed to secure a win in the series opener, their lone victory thus far. While there was hope Curry might play tonight, the medical staff has opted for continued rest to aid his recovery.
In Game 4, the Warriors fell at home, 117-110, despite a strong performance from Jonathan Kuminga, who led the team with 23 points. Tonight, at the Target Center, they’ll need Jimmy Butler to step up and provide both leadership and scoring in Curry’s absence as the team fights to extend their playoff run.
What happens if the Warriors lose to the Timberwolves?
A loss tonight would eliminate the Warriors from the playoffs, sending the Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals. Minnesota would then face the winner of the Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder series.
Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves dribbles the ball against Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors during Game 4. (Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
What happens if the Warriors beat the Timberwolves?
A win in Minnesota would cut the Timberwolves’ series lead to 3-2, forcing a Game 6 back at the Chase Center. To reach the Western Conference Finals, the Warriors would need to follow up tonight’s win with victories in both Game 6 and Game 7.
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What happens if the Warriors and the Timberwolves tie?
There are no ties in the NBA Playoffs. If regulation ends in a tie, the game will go into a five-minute overtime period, with additional overtimes following if necessary. A Timberwolves win in overtime would clinch the series for Minnesota, while a Warriors win would extend the series to 3-2.
