The Golden State Warriors managed a 99-88 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals. However, the win came with a serious concern, as superstar Stephen Curry exited the game early with a hamstring injury.
In the postgame interview on TNT, Jimmy Butler highlighted Curry’s importance. Butler said the team knew how significant Curry was and noted how different the game felt without him.
“Big time for the guys. We want Steph back; I can tell you that. It’s hard playing without that man. But we got one on the road, came here, and did what we gotta do,” Butler said.
"We want Steph back, I'll tell you that… Steph is our best player, and the game is much easier when we've got him."
Jimmy Butler after the Warriors' Game 1 win over the Timberwolves ️pic.twitter.com/iFrSCjO2xG
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 7, 2025
“That Steph is our best player and the game is much easier when we’ve got him,” he added.
Curry suffered the injury during the second quarter while defending Timberwolves’ Mike Conley. The Warriors sharpshooter showed visible discomfort as he advanced the ball.
Curry was spotted grabbing his left thigh in discomfort. He then signaled for a timeout, after which he was taken out of the game. The Warriors later confirmed he would not return.
Steve Kerr Gives Update On Stephen Curry’s Game 2 Availability
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr addressed Stephen Curry’s status following the win. Kerr admitted the outlook for Game 2 wasn’t optimistic.
“We’re definitely game planning for him to not be available [for Game 2] on Thursday,” Kerr said.
Before his exit, Curry had already made a strong impact. He led the Warriors with 13 points, hitting 5 of his 9 shots and helping to build early momentum. His absence forced the Warriors to dig deep, but they still managed to secure a hard-fought win on the road. Game 2 will be held on Thursday.