Steph Curry's Hamstring Injury Clouds Warriors' Playoff Victory Over Timberwolves

The Golden State Warriors secured a dramatic Game 1 victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but the celebration was tempered by concern for their superstar Stephen Curry. The two-time MVP left the game in the third quarter with a left hamstring strain, casting doubt on his availability for Game 2 and potentially changing the complexion of this first-round playoff series.

Curry’s injury occurred during a routine drive to the basket late in the third quarter. Television replays showed the guard grabbing at his left leg immediately after making a sharp cut. He attempted to walk it off but was eventually helped to the locker room by team trainers. Initial reports suggest a mild to moderate strain, but the Warriors have listed him as day-to-day pending further evaluation.

Warriors Rally Without Their Leader

Remarkably, the Warriors overcame Curry’s absence to steal Game 1 on the road. Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins stepped up with clutch baskets down the stretch, while Draymond Green’s defensive intensity disrupted Minnesota’s offensive flow. The 112-109 victory gives Golden State crucial home-court advantage in the series, but questions linger about how sustainable their success is without Curry.

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“We’ve been through this before,” Green told reporters postgame. “Steph goes down, next man up. But obviously he’s the engine that makes us go.” The Warriors improved to 7-3 this season in games Curry has missed, though none of those came in playoff intensity.

Timberwolves Miss Opportunity

Minnesota failed to capitalize on Curry’s exit, with All-Stars Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns combining to shoot just 15-of-42 from the field. The Timberwolves had multiple chances to tie or take the lead in the final minute but committed two costly turnovers. Coach Chris Finch acknowledged his team’s disappointment: “When a player like Curry goes out, you have to make them pay. We didn’t do that tonight.”

The Wolves’ defensive strategy will need adjustment if Curry misses time. Their game plan had focused heavily on trapping Curry off screens, leaving other Warriors open. Without that focal point, Minnesota must now contend with Golden State’s more balanced attack.

Historical Context of Curry Injuries

This isn’t the first playoff run threatened by Curry’s health. In 2016, a knee sprain caused him to miss several games, though the Warriors still reached the Finals. More recently, a foot injury in the 2022 playoffs didn’t prevent Golden State from winning the championship. However, at age 36, recovery timelines may be longer.

Hamstring injuries are particularly tricky for shooters like Curry who rely on explosive lower-body movements. Even if he returns quickly, there’s risk of reduced effectiveness or re-injury. The Warriors medical staff will likely be cautious given the early stage of the playoffs.

What’s Next for Both Teams

Game 2 remains scheduled for Minnesota on Wednesday night. If Curry can’t go, expect increased minutes for Chris Paul and Moses Moody. The Timberwolves will likely attack more in transition to exploit Golden State’s potentially weakened perimeter defense.

Long-term, this injury could have ripple effects throughout the Western Conference playoff picture. A prolonged absence for Curry might open the door for other contenders, while simultaneously putting more pressure on the Timberwolves to capitalize on this unexpected opportunity.

The Bigger Picture for Golden State

This incident highlights the Warriors’ precarious position as an aging dynasty. With their core in their mid-30s, health becomes increasingly fragile during the playoff grind. Management faces tough decisions this offseason about how long to keep this group together.

For now, all eyes are on that left hamstring. The Warriors’ championship hopes may hinge on how quickly their superstar can return to form. As the NBA learned years ago with Curry’s “ankle problems” narrative, counting him out prematurely is often a mistake. But in the immediate future, Golden State must prove they can survive without their offensive catalyst.