Even Steve Kerr is impressed by Timberwolves Western Conference dominance
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 6:17 am
Timberwolves Dominate Warriors, Head to Western Conference Finals
The Minnesota Timberwolves are proving their mettle in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, decisively eliminating the Golden State Warriors in the second round. After dropping Game 1, the Timberwolves roared back, winning four straight games, culminating in a commanding 121-110 victory at home. This series win sends them back to the Western Conference Finals.
The Warriors, hampered by an injury to star player Stephen Curry in Game 1, struggled to find their offensive rhythm. Without Curry, the offensive burden fell on Jimmy Butler and Buddy Hield, who combined for a disappointing 25 points in the decisive Game 5.
Even Warriors coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the Timberwolves' dominance, praising their performance and the team's consistent improvement under coach Chris Finch and executive Tim Connolly. Kerr highlighted the Timberwolves' "elite status" in the Western Conference, acknowledging their impressive run.
The Timberwolves' success is particularly noteworthy considering they traded away star center Karl-Anthony Towns in 2024, acquiring Julius Randle in return. However, the team hasn't missed a beat, with Anthony Edwards taking a significant leap in his performance. Edwards' win shares increased from 7.5 to 8.4, and his true shooting percentage improved from 57.5 to 59.5, demonstrating his growth as a key player.
The Timberwolves are now aiming to go further than their 2024 playoff run, where they lost to the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals. They are poised to make a serious run for the championship.
BNN's Perspective: The Timberwolves' success is a testament to smart roster management and player development. While the Curry injury undoubtedly impacted the Warriors, Minnesota's consistent performance throughout the series, and Edwards' continued growth, shows they are a legitimate contender. The trade of Towns, while initially surprising, appears to have strengthened the team, showcasing the evolving landscape of the NBA.
Keywords: Minnesota Timberwolves, Warriors, NBA Playoffs, Western Conference Finals, Steve Kerr, Anthony Edwards, Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, Buddy Hield, Chris Finch, Tim Connolly, Karl-Anthony Towns, Julius Randle, NBA, basketball, playoffs, sports, Golden State Warriors, Timberwolves playoffs, NBA news