Warriors vs Timberwolves Prediction, Picks & Odds for Wednesday’s NBA Playoffs Game 5
As the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare to host the Golden State Warriors in Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals on May 14, 2025, the stakes couldn't be higher. Leading the series 3-1, the Timberwolves have a golden opportunity to clinch their first playoff series at home since 2004. Conversely, the Warriors face elimination and must overcome significant challenges to extend their postseason run.
Game Overview
Matchup: Golden State Warriors vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 9:30 PM ET
Venue: Target Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Broadcast: TNT, truTV, and MAX
Team Performance and Key Players
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves have showcased resilience and dominance after dropping Game 1, securing three consecutive wins to lead the series. Their success is attributed to a combination of stellar individual performances and cohesive team play.
Anthony Edwards: Emerging as a playoff superstar, Edwards has drawn comparisons to Stephen Curry with his explosive scoring and clutch performances. Notably, he scored 44 points across three critical quarters in the last two games, including a 16-point third quarter in Game 4.
Julius Randle: Randle has been instrumental, providing consistent scoring and rebounding. His contributions have added depth to the Timberwolves' offense, alleviating pressure from Edwards.
Rudy Gobert: Anchoring the defense, Gobert's presence in the paint has disrupted the Warriors' offensive rhythm, limiting their scoring opportunities inside.
Golden State Warriors
The Warriors' journey has been marred by injuries and inconsistent performances. The absence of their talisman, Stephen Curry, due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain sustained in Game 1, has significantly impacted their offensive efficiency.
Jimmy Butler: Expected to shoulder the scoring load in Curry's absence, Butler has faced challenges, including health issues that limited his effectiveness in Game 4.
Jonathan Kuminga: While showing flashes of brilliance, Kuminga's inexperience has been evident, and he has struggled to consistently impact the game.
Draymond Green: Green's leadership and defensive prowess are vital; however, foul troubles and limited offensive contributions have hindered his overall impact.
Statistical Comparison
| Category | Minnesota Timberwolves | Golden State Warriors |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game (PPG) | 114.3 | 113.8 |
| Field Goal Percentage (FG%) | 46.8% | 45.1% |
| Three-Point Percentage (3P%) | 38.2% | 36.1% |
| Rebounds Per Game | 44.3 | 45.4 |
| Assists Per Game | 26.1 | 29.1 |
| Blocks Per Game | 5.0 | 4.8 |
| Steals Per Game | 8.0 | 9.4 |
Note: Statistics are based on playoff averages up to Game 4.
Betting Odds and Insights
Betting MarketOddsSpreadTimberwolves -11.5Over/Under203.5 pointsMoneylineTimberwolves -599 / Warriors +440
Against the Spread (ATS): The Timberwolves have a 6-4 record ATS in their last 10 games, indicating a strong performance relative to expectations.
Over/Under Trends: Both teams have frequently exceeded the 203.5-point total in games this season, suggesting a propensity for high-scoring affairs.
Keys to the Game
For the Timberwolves:
Maintain Offensive Momentum: Continuing the aggressive and efficient scoring, particularly from Edwards and Randle, will be crucial.
Defensive Intensity: Sustaining the defensive pressure that has disrupted the Warriors' rhythm can prevent any potential comebacks.
Limit Turnovers: Reducing unforced errors will minimize opportunities for the Warriors to capitalize on fast breaks.
For the Warriors:
Secondary Scoring: With Curry out, players like Butler and Kuminga need to elevate their offensive contributions.
Defensive Adjustments: Implementing strategies to contain Edwards and Randle is essential to stifle the Timberwolves' offense.
Control the Tempo: Dictating the pace of the game can help the Warriors manage the Timberwolves' explosive scoring runs.
Prediction
Given the Timberwolves' current form, home-court advantage, and the Warriors' injury woes, Minnesota is poised to close out the series in Game 5. Expect a competitive game, but the Timberwolves' depth and momentum should carry them to victory.
Predicted Score: Timberwolves 114, Warriors 108
