Timberwolves beat Warriors in Game 5 to reach Western Conference finals for 2nd straight year

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — As Julius Randle wrapped up a postgame TV interview, Anthony Edwards stepped in with a handshake, sealing yet another impressive playoff series for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Randle delivered a standout performance, scoring 29 points on 13-of-18 shooting to lead the Timberwolves to a 121-110 victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game 5 on Wednesday night. The win secured Minnesota’s spot in the Western Conference finals for the second straight year.

Edwards added 22 points and 12 assists for the sixth-seeded Timberwolves, who now await the winner of the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder series. If the Nuggets win Game 6 on Thursday to force a Game 7, the Wolves could enjoy up to five days of rest.

Golden State was without Stephen Curry again due to a lingering hamstring strain suffered in Game 1 — a blow that disrupted their offensive rhythm throughout the series. In his absence, rookie Brandin Podziemski stepped up with a playoff career-high 28 points, and Jonathan Kuminga provided a spark off the bench with 26. Still, the Warriors lacked consistent production from Jimmy Butler and Buddy Hield after their strong Game 1 performances.

Minnesota faced a tougher defensive test from the Warriors than they did from the Lakers in the first round, but their depth and unselfish ball movement ultimately wore down Golden State. The Wolves showcased their offensive firepower with a franchise playoff record 62.8% shooting from the field, including a blistering 77% on two-point attempts (36 of 47).

Rudy Gobert was dominant in the paint with 17 points, Mike Conley added 16 points and eight assists, and Donte DiVincenzo bounced back from a slump with 13 points. Minnesota also set a postseason team record with 36 assists.

Despite a late Warriors rally that cut the lead to 99-90 with just over seven minutes to play, Edwards silenced the comeback with a clutch three-pointer. The crowd erupted, chanting “Wolves in 5! Wolves in 5!” as each basket brought them closer to advancing.

Randle’s relentless energy and consistent scoring have been a hallmark of Minnesota’s postseason success, and in this decisive game, the Timberwolves left no doubt about their place in the next round.