Warriors Compete Without Steph Curry Amid Hamstring Injury in Western Semifinals

Stephen Curry's Grade 1 hamstring strain has sidelined him for at least a week during the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, forcing the Golden State Warriors to adapt without their star offensive player. Despite Curry's early exit in Game 1, the Warriors secured a narrow 69-68 win, relying heavily on defense and contributions from teammates like Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler, who is expected to take on a larger role offensively. Head coach Steve Kerr emphasized the challenge of playing without Curry, comparing his importance to that of legendary figures like Tim Duncan and Michael Jordan, and acknowledged the team's need to adjust their strategies and lineups. Butler, known as 'Playoff Jimmy,' along with Buddy Hield and Green, are stepping up to fill the scoring void, with Hield notably continuing his hot streak from the first round. The Warriors hope Curry might return by Game 5 or Game 6, but until then, the team must rely on their collective resilience and culture that has driven their past successes. Overall, the injury has shifted the dynamics of the series, highlighting the importance of depth and leadership beyond Curry.