The Golden State Warriors beat the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the NBA playoffs on Wednesday night.
With Stephen Curry, who recently returned from the injured list, out of the game for practically the entire contest, the San Francisco team had to count on Buddy Hield (24 points), and Jimmy Butler (20) to win 99-88. This way, they emerged victorious during the WCF semifinals series.
Warriors’ victory had a price because Stephen Curry left after getting a hamstring strain in the second quarter.
It nonetheless proved that the team will be able to control the Timberwolves in the series even without their star. Butler himself is eager to have the No 30 back.
“(This game taught us) that Curry is our best player and the game is a lot easier when we have him,” Butler said.
“It’s an important win, but we want him back, for sure. It’s tough to play without him, but we came out here and did what we had to do.” Butler added.
Butler was crucial in the victory but without Curry. Facing an aggressive team, the forward assisted the defence in preventing Timberwolves from getting 88 points as well as shooting on three-point shots 17.2%.
Moreover, the star was only a step away from achieving a triple-double with 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists.
“It was great (to return to Targer Center), with a new group and in the playoffs. I don’t think you can ask for anything better than to be here and come away with a win in Minnesota,” Butler said.
Butler will be the Warriors first offensive option in the games, but coach Steve Kerr intends to give other players more space. After all, Curry is the highest scorer of his team.
The Warriors, by the way, are expecting some more great efforts by Butler while Curry tries to recover from injuries.
ESPN’s Shams Charania said Curry sustained a grade 1 thigh injury and will be re-evaluated in one week. As such, he is ruled out from game 2 and he can only return in a possible sixth game.
