Game 3 between the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves has been a competitive one thus far.
Minnesota got off to a hot start in the game as they opened up an early lead. Golden State was then able to go on a late run in the first quarter to tie the game at 21 apiece at the end of one.
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The Warriors then carried a two-point lead into halftime despite missing all five of their three-pointers in the first half.
May 6, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley (10) defends against Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler (10) in the first quarter during game one of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images
In the second half, the Warriors were able to extend their lead to four points at the end of the third quarter and they now enter the fourth quarter looking to regain control of the series as they try to take a 2-1 series lead.
Jimmy Butler has led the way for the Warriors thus far as he has recorded 28 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in 33 minutes as he has stepped up huge with Stephen Curry still sidelined due to a hamstring strain.
While Butler has been the key for the Warriors thus far in Game 3, Jonathan Kuminga has also provided a massive spark off the bench with 22 points and five rebounds in 25 minutes.
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr talks to forward Jonathan Kuminga.Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
This is a great sign for Kuminga, who head coach Steve Kerr had benched earlier in the playoffs and ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins made a loud statement regarding the young forward n social media during the game.
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“Like I said Kuminga should have NEVER been outta the rotation. That young man is to damn athletic and Skilled not be on the floor,” Perkins posted on X during Game 3.
Of course, Kuminga was benched at the end of the regular season and that continued into the playoffs as Kerr did not like his fit alongside Butler.
Despite this, Kuminga has rejoined the Warriors’ rotation due to Curry’s injury as Kerr continues to find an answer with their star out and Kuminga has taken full advantage of the opportunity.
Because of his performance, Kuminga may have played himself back into the rotation even if Curry is able to return at some point in the series.