Golden State Wins Thriller, But Loses Curry to Injury

The Golden State Warriors defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 99-88 in Game 1 of their Western Conference semi-final series, but the win was overshadowed by Stephen Curry's hamstring injury, which will likely keep him sidelined for Game 2.

The Indiana Pacers took a commanding 2-0 lead in their NBA Eastern Conference semi-final series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, thanks to Tyrese Haliburton's dramatic 24-foot step-back three-pointer with 1.1 seconds left on the clock. This stunning shot sealed a 120-119 win for the Pacers, who completed a remarkable comeback as the fourth seed.

never down. never out 😤#PacersWin pic.twitter.com/sCYbWzVerW

— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) May 7, 2025

Haliburton's ice-cold three-pointer not only won the game but also put the Cavaliers in a tough spot as the series shifts back to Indianapolis. The Pacers' victory marks another instance of road teams dominating in the second round of the NBA playoffs, with visiting teams now 6-0 in the series.

In other playoff action, the Golden State Warriors took Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, despite Stephen Curry's early exit due to a strained hamstring. The Warriors' win contributes to the historic start for road teams in the second round, a trend that's been notable this season.

Current NBA Playoff Standings:

Eastern Conference Semifinals:

• (1) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (4) Indiana Pacers: Pacers lead 2-0
• (2) Boston Celtics vs. (3) New York Knicks: Knicks lead 1-0

Western Conference Semifinals:

• (1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (4) Denver Nuggets: Nuggets lead 1-0
• (6) Minnesota Timberwolves vs. (7) Golden State Warriors: Warriors lead 1-0 

Donovan Mitchell delivered a masterful 48-point performance, nearly single-handedly carrying an injury-depleted Cleveland to victory.

However, the Cavs, missing starters Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter, visibly faltered down the stretch against a determined Pacers lineup that steadily closed the gap.

Cleveland seemed poised for victory when Max Strus hit his fifth three-pointer, putting the Cavs up 117-110 with over a minute left.

However, Indiana mounted a stunning comeback with a 10-2 run in the final minute, capped by Tyrese Haliburton's winning three-pointer. Coach Rick Carlisle said, “Cleveland hit us with a hellacious punch early in the game and it was difficult to get the ball over half court, let alone score.”

The Pacers' comeback victory showcased their resilience, with coach Rick Carlisle's team overcoming adversity. Haliburton said, “We played from behind the whole game. But in the fourth quarter we just hung in there. We've been in a lot of these situations down the stretch this season. Our group has a belief in one another and we just keep executing and keep playing.”

Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 19 points, while Aaron Nesmith and Myles Turner each scored 23 points, and six Indiana players reached double figures.

For the Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell's 48 points were supported by Max Strus's 23 points and Jarrett Allen's 22 points. Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson attributed the loss to fatigue, saying his team had “ran out of gas.”

Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson attributed the loss to his team's inability to maintain their advantage.

Atkinson said, “We outplayed them for most of the game. We couldn't really separate ourselves. Every possession, they just upped their physicality. We ran out of gas. But with fatigue comes decision-making, and we had some poor decision-making. That was part of the collapse.”

The series now shifts to Indianapolis for Game 3 on Friday.

Warriors Edge Timberwolves in Series Opener

The Golden State Warriors secured a 99-88 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in their Western Conference semi-final series opener, thanks to their stout defense.

The Timberwolves' Anthony Edwards had a rare off-night, making just one three-pointer despite scoring 23 points.

The win gives the Warriors an early lead in the series, but concerns surround Stephen Curry, who exited the game early due to a strained hamstring.

The Timberwolves' struggles from beyond the arc, making just 5 of 29 three-pointers, proved crucial in the Warriors' 99-88 win.

Handled business. pic.twitter.com/SOituk9iKu

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) May 7, 2025

In contrast, Golden State shot 18-of-42 from three, led by Buddy Hield's 24 points, including five three-pointers.

The Warriors' win was bolstered by Jimmy Butler's 20 points and Draymond Green's 18 points.

However, the victory was overshadowed by Stephen Curry's injury, which likely rules him out for Thursday's Game 2. Jimmy Butler said, “We want Steph back, I tell you that - it's hard playing without that man. Steph is our best player, and the game is much easier when we've got him.” Curry will undergo an MRI scan on Wednesday to determine the extent of the injury.

“We're definitely game-planning for him not to be available on Thursday,” Kerr said.

“We don't know yet, but with a hamstring, it's hard to imagine that he would play Thursday.

“I spoke to him at half-time and he's obviously crushed. But the guys picked him up and played a great game. We're all concerned but it's part of the game.”