In Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Warriors, just about everything was lined up for a Timberwolves loss. Jimmy Butler of Golden State had a big game, with 33 points, and Jonathan Kuminga had the surprise outing he needed, scoring 30.
The Wolves did not have a great shooting night (43.9%) and got little from their bench (11 points). But still, Minnesota snagged a critical, grinding win on the road, 102-97.
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And they were able to do it thanks in large part to a hamstring injury suffered by Warriors superstar Stephen Curry in Game 1. Curry has not appeared in the two games since, and remains a major fixture on the NBA’s daily injury report, as the hamstring is likely to keep him out until Game 6, if the series goes that long.
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) smiles after being fouled by the Golden State Warriors in the fourth quarter during game three in the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
The Wolves, on the other hand, have been blessed with good health for their postseason run. Even in the one scary moment, when Anthony Edwards appeared to injure his ankle in Game 2, he bounced right back into action in the second half.
Timberwolves coach Chris Finch was asked about Edwards’ ankle on Saturday, and whether there were any restrictions on him because of it.
“Not that I’m aware of right now,” Finch said. “He had a workout yesterday. Had not really had any ill effects from it. So you know, hopefully it’s as close to full go as you can be right now.”
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On Sunday, Minnesota released their injury report to the NBA office, and once again, there was no sign of Edwards on it. The only player who has been a fixture is rookie Rob Dillingham, and he is listed as “out” again with an ankle problem.
Dillingham had an up-and-down season with the Wolves, who acquired him in a draft deal with the Spurs last June. Dillingham was the No. 8 pick out of Kentucky. Heading into the March stretch run, Dillingham had averaged 16.3 minutes in a 21-game stretch, but fell out of favor with Finch, as he lost his grip on a rotation spot thanks to some poor decisions.