How to watch Warriors vs. Timberwolves, Game 3
Golden State basketball is on the way! Come join our game thread and chat about tonight’s matchup here.
The Golden State Warriors bring their second-round series back home to the Chase Center, where they’ll face the Minnesota Timberwolves in a crucial Game 3. Tip-off is set for 5:30 PM PT in San Francisco and will air on ABC.
Previously with the Warriors:
After stealing Game 1 on the road, the Warriors lost Game 2 in blowout fashion, 117-93. It marked their first game in this series without Stephen Curry, who remains sidelined with a strained left hamstring. His absence forced Golden State to completely overhaul its approach against Minnesota as head coach Steve Kerr deployed 14 different players in the first half alone—a playoff record—in search of effective lineup combinations.
Steve Kerr said the gameplan was to play a ton of guys in the first half tonight in search of rotation answers without Steph Curry. pic.twitter.com/aFWMNSjSQ8
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) May 9, 2025
Despite trailing 56-39 at halftime, the Warriors did manage to cut the deficit down to seven midway through the third quarter. However, turnovers and other self-inflicted mistakes opened the door for the Timberwolves to respond with a 20-7 run, regaining full control and cruising to the win.
What to watch for tonight:
Kerr’s methodical experimentation in Game 2 revealed a few takeaways that could shape tonight’s strategy.
Jonathan Kuminga logged 26 minutes and led the team with 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting. Trayce Jackson-Davis also earned 19 minutes and tied Buddy Hield for the third-most points on the team with 15. The athleticism of both Kuminga and Jackson-Davis gave the Wolves some problems, and their continued emergence could be key to reigniting the Warriors’ offense.
STEVE KERR: "The domino effect of Steph being out led to Trayce playing tonight, because we need the scoring... same thing with [Kuminga]. We had found a formula over the last couple months... but without Steph the formula completely goes out the window and we've got to figure… pic.twitter.com/SwxBEZZd8j
— KNBR (@KNBR) May 9, 2025
One constant for Golden State, however, is Jimmy Butler. Although still nursing a hip injury suffered in the first round, Butler played a team-high 34 minutes in Game 2, finishing with 17 points (6-of-13 shooting), seven rebounds, four assists, and one steal. While questions remain about his fit alongside non-shooters like Kuminga and Jackson-Davis, Butler made it clear he’s confident in their ability to mesh.
“I can play with anybody. He can play with anybody… Me and JK could thrive; can and will thrive together on the basketball floor.”
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) May 9, 2025
Jimmy Butler III on playing with Jonathan Kuminga pic.twitter.com/lO7x5UfoOO
Butler’s team oriented play-style makes it easier for Golden State to adjust without Curry, but make no mistake, if needed, Butler insists he’s capable of turning on “Playoff Jimmy” mode.
“If that time comes where your people that are saying whatever, supposed to score 40 or whatever the case may be. I’m capable of it. I can do it. But I love making sure my guys are comfortable. Passing the ball to them.”
— KNBR (@KNBR) May 9, 2025
Jimmy Butler III on people waiting for/expecting… pic.twitter.com/QjnKfj8Gb5
The Warriors will need to win at least one more game to guarantee a Game 6—an important milestone that would offer a three-day rest and a potential return for Curry. With the series shifting to the Bay, Game 3 may be Golden State’s best chance to swing the momentum back in their favor.
Enjoy the game Dub Nation. GO WARRIORS!!!
Projected Starters
Warriors: Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, Jimmy Butler, Jonathan Kuminga, Draymond Green
Timberwolves: Mike Conley, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, Rudy Gobert
How to watch NBA Playoffs West Semifinals Game 3
Who: Golden State Warriors (1 - 1) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (1 - 1)
When: Saturday, May 10th, at 5:30 p.m. PT
Where: Chase Center, San Francisco, California
TV: ABC (available on fuboTV)