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- What: NBA Western Conference Playoffs Game 1
- When: May 6, 2025
- Who: Golden State Warriors vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
- Time: 9:30 p.m. EST
- Where: Target Center (Minneapolis, MN)
The Western Conference semifinals kick off in Minneapolis, where the rested Timberwolves take on the seasoned Warriors.
Minnesota, led by emerging superstar Anthony Edwards (averaging 26.8 PPG, 8.4 RPG, and 6.2 APG in the first round), aims to extend its defensive prowess after eliminating the Lakers in five games.
Meanwhile, Golden State, coming off a grueling seven-game series against Houston, will rely heavily on Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. However, they must navigate a quick turnaround against a formidable Timberwolves defense.
With home-court advantage and fresher players, Minnesota holds the upper hand, but expect an electrifying showdown as Edwards and Curry face off in a battle of talent and aspirations.
Before we examine our picks, check out the best NBA Basketball Betting Sites.
Despite being considered underdogs on the road, the Golden State Warriors have a compelling argument for either an outright win or at least to cover the spread against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals.
Game Preview (Warriors vs. Timberwolves)
Fresh off a tough Game 7 victory over the Houston Rockets, the Warriors carry momentum into this matchup, bolstered by their battle-tested core, which includes Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
| Spread |  |  |  |
| Golden State Warriors +7 Points | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| Minnesota Timberwolves -7 Points | -110 | -110 | -110 |
While the quick turnaround with only one day of rest raises concerns about fatigue, Golden State’s experience in high-pressure playoff encounters is formidable.
This is a team that has consistently performed well in challenging away games and knows how to keep scores close when the stakes are high.
Another important aspect to consider is the Warriors’ favorable record against Minnesota, having won three out of four regular-season matchups.
This success suggests they can effectively exploit the Wolves’ defensive strategies.
Additionally, Buddy Hield’s rise as a reliable scoring option provides extra firepower for Golden State, alleviating some of the offensive pressure on Curry and Butler.
24 HOURS TILL TIP-OFF. ⏳ pic.twitter.com/VVtfWGI7L9
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) May 6, 2025
While Minnesota benefits from home-court advantage and additional rest, the Warriors’ championship experience, adaptability, and ability to hit clutch shots give them a strong chance to keep the game within the 7-point spread.
Anticipate Golden State to use their veteran wisdom and playoff resilience to make Game 1 a fiercely contested affair, positioning themselves advantageously against a Timberwolves team that, while rested, may lack the same playoff grit.
I like the Warriors to keep it close in this one and cover the 7-point spread.
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Total Points
The Timberwolves struggled with their shooting against the Lakers and tend to favor a slower pace of play. They ranked 25th in the NBA for pace and averaged only 107.4 points per game in their series against Los Angeles.
| Total Points | | | |
| Over 209.5 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| Under 209.5 | -110 | -110 | -110 |
While their three-point shooting was below par, their defense was top-notch, making it difficult for the Lakers to find scoring opportunities.
On the other hand, the Warriors are coming off a grueling and physical series against the Rockets, which also featured a slow tempo.
"We're right where we need to be. Right where we want to be…"@Oracle || Warriors Talk pic.twitter.com/qSQjc1E4vm
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) May 6, 2025
With their top four players—Curry, Green, Butler, and Hield—being 32 or older, that series took a significant toll on them.
Golden State averaged just 104 PPG points in that matchup, but they maintained their strong defensive performance throughout the season, challenging the Rockets consistently.
This upcoming game is set to be a defensive battle, and the overall pace is likely to remain slow. Consider taking the under.
Under 209 points is the best bet in this one.
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