In a postseason series that has been full of surprises, the Minnesota Timberwolves delivered a statement win on the road against the defending champion Golden State Warriors. With their 3-1 series lead after securing a hard-fought 110-104 victory in Game 4, the Timberwolves have put the Warriors on the brink of elimination, showing that they are not to be underestimated.
The Timberwolves entered the game with a 2-1 lead, looking to take command of the series, but doing so on the Warriors’ home turf is never an easy task. Golden State, with their championship pedigree and the undeniable brilliance of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, were favored to bounce back and even the series. However, Minnesota’s collective resilience and timely performances have shaken the Warriors to their core.
Game 4 was a thrilling, back-and-forth contest that highlighted both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. Early on, it looked like Golden State might take control, as Curry—who has been nothing short of spectacular all postseason—was heating up. His deep three-pointers, mixed with an explosive offensive performance from Thompson, helped Golden State to a brief lead in the second quarter. But the Timberwolves’ defense, led by the shot-blocking presence of Rudy Gobert, clamped down when it mattered most, forcing the Warriors into difficult shots and preventing them from finding rhythm.
Minnesota’s young star, Anthony Edwards, emerged as the clear difference-maker in this game. Edwards was electric from the start, showcasing his all-around game. He finished with 35 points, including several crucial three-pointers in the second half, showing that he is ready for the big stage. His aggressive driving to the basket and ability to create his own shot kept Golden State’s defense on its heels, making him the primary threat throughout the game.
Karl-Anthony Towns was also instrumental in the victory, contributing 22 points and 10 rebounds. His ability to stretch the floor and provide an inside presence allowed Minnesota to maintain balance on both ends of the floor. While the Timberwolves’ offense was clicking, it was their defense that ultimately sealed the deal. They forced turnovers, contested every shot, and got timely stops in the fourth quarter when Golden State was making its push for a comeback.
With Golden State down by six points in the final minute, Curry and Thompson made one last attempt to close the gap, but Minnesota’s defense stood tall. Gobert made a crucial block on a Thompson three-point attempt, and the Timberwolves capitalized on fast breaks to secure the win and extend their series lead.
For the Warriors, this loss stings, and with their backs now against the wall, Game 5 becomes a must-win. The team will need to regroup and lean on their championship experience if they want to stave off elimination. Curry, Thompson, and Green will need to be at their best, but the Warriors’ defense has been inconsistent, and Golden State has been unable to find the same rhythm they relied on throughout their playoff runs.
For Minnesota, the 3-1 series lead represents a huge opportunity. With one more win, they could advance to the next round, knocking out the defending champions in what would be a shocking upset. The Timberwolves are playing with confidence, and they have shown they can compete with any team in the league.
Now, all eyes are on Game 5, where Minnesota will look to close it out, while Golden State will fight for their playoff lives.
