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Stephen Curry delivered a spectacular performance Wednesday night, scoring a season-high 44 points to lead the Golden State Warriors past the Minnesota Timberwolves 119-114 at Target Center in Minneapolis.
The victory gave Golden State its second consecutive win after a difficult 0-3 start. Minnesota, meanwhile, suffered its second straight defeat after opening the season 3-0. The result also became an important early test for the Timberwolves, who were playing without star guard Anthony Edwards.
Stephen Curry Powers Warriors to a Dramatic Victory
Curry was outstanding throughout the contest, finishing 11-for-27 from the field and making six 3-pointers. He was especially reliable at the free-throw line, converting all 16 of his attempts. The veteran guard also contributed eight rebounds and six assists, affecting the game well beyond his scoring total.
His offensive explosion helped the Warriors establish control after a back-and-forth opening. Golden State built a lead as large as 24 points, but Minnesota refused to go quietly. The Timberwolves mounted a spirited fourth-quarter comeback and repeatedly threatened to turn the game around.
With the score at 116-112, Minnesota had several opportunities to make it a one-possession game. However, Jaden McDaniels missed two attempts from beyond the arc during the final minute, allowing the Warriors to escape with the win.
Key Numbers From the Warriors’ Win
- Stephen Curry: 44 points, eight rebounds and six assists
- Curry’s shooting: 11-for-27 from the field, six 3-pointers and 16-for-16 from the free-throw line
- Yaxel Lendeborg: 26 points for Golden State
- Jaden McDaniels: 19 points for Minnesota
- Final score: Golden State Warriors 119, Minnesota Timberwolves 114
Anthony Edwards’ Absence Changes Minnesota’s Challenge
The Timberwolves were forced to adjust without Edwards, who is expected to miss extended time following arthroscopic surgery on his right knee. According to the report carried by the Associated Press, Edwards had averaged 33.3 points through Minnesota’s first four games.
His absence was immediately noticeable. Edwards has been Minnesota’s primary scoring option and one of the league’s most explosive perimeter players. Without him, the Timberwolves needed contributions from several players to keep pace with Curry and the Warriors.
Jaden McDaniels and Terrence Shannon Jr. each scored 19 points, while Minnesota’s former Golden State forward Jonathan Kuminga added 20 points. Kuminga was selected seventh overall by the Warriors in 2021 before being traded to Atlanta midway through last season. He later signed with Minnesota as a free agent in September.
Despite the balanced effort, Minnesota struggled to generate enough offense during the decisive stretches. The late missed 3-pointers proved costly as Golden State protected its lead and closed out the game.
Important Questions Remain for the Timberwolves
Guard LaMelo Ball also endured another difficult night from the floor. He finished with eight points after shooting 3-for-11 overall and 2-for-8 from 3-point range. Minnesota will need more consistent production from its backcourt while Edwards recovers.
The Timberwolves now face the challenge of maintaining their early-season competitiveness without their leading scorer. Their ability to create offense, defend opposing stars and finish close games will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
Warriors Gain Confidence After Rough Start
For Golden State, the win was another sign that the team may be finding its rhythm. Curry’s scoring remains the central force of the offense, but the Warriors also received valuable production from rookie Yaxel Lendeborg, who scored 26 points.
The comeback victory over Minnesota showed both the Warriors’ offensive firepower and their ability to withstand pressure. Curry’s control at the free-throw line was particularly important in the closing minutes, when every possession carried extra weight.
Golden State now turns its attention to a Friday night home matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. Minnesota will also return to action Friday, hosting the Los Angeles Clippers.
As per ESPN and the Associated Press, Curry’s 44-point performance was the headline moment of the night. More importantly, it helped the Warriors move forward with momentum while the Timberwolves begin navigating life without Edwards.
FAQs About Stephen Curry’s 44-Point Performance
How many points did Stephen Curry score?
Stephen Curry scored 44 points, which was a season high. He also recorded eight rebounds and six assists.
What was the final score of the game?
The Golden State Warriors defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 119-114 in Minneapolis.
How did Curry shoot from the free-throw line?
Curry was perfect from the free-throw line, making all 16 of his attempts.
Why was Anthony Edwards absent?
Anthony Edwards missed the game after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee. He is expected to miss extended time.
Who led Minnesota in scoring?
Jonathan Kuminga led Minnesota with 20 points, while Jaden McDaniels and Terrence Shannon Jr. each scored 19.
