As the Golden State Warriors prepare for Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs 2025 Western Conference Semifinals, head coach Steve Kerr sees a silver lining in their Game 2 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite falling 117-93 on Thursday at Target Center, Kerr believes the defeat could ultimately benefit the Warriors — especially as they await a Steph Curry injury update.

Curry, who missed Game 2 due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain, remains sidelined, forcing Golden State to adapt without their superstar. Yet Kerr remains optimistic.

“We can use last night as a valuable tool,” Kerr told reporters Friday. “Watching the tape gives us insight. That’s why I actually think the Game 2 loss to the Timberwolves was helpful. We learned a lot, and I believe we’ll come into Game 3 with a clear plan we feel confident in.”

Although no team wants to endure a 24-point playoff loss, Kerr is focused on growth. With Curry out, the Warriors’ rotation deepened, giving younger players meaningful minutes. Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis stepped up, scoring 18 and 16 points respectively — a promising development as Golden State tries to stay alive in the 2025 NBA playoffs.

Only Jimmy Butler and Brandin Podziemski logged more than 30 minutes, showing Kerr’s commitment to managing fatigue while evaluating who can deliver in Curry’s absence.

Now, heading into Saturday’s critical Game 3 at Chase Center, Kerr is strategizing to extend the series until the latest Steph Curry injury update signals his return.

“This is about adjusting,” Kerr said. “It’s a chess match with [Timberwolves coach] Chris Finch, but now we know more. We’re ready.”

Golden State faces elimination — but with Kerr’s insight and the rise of their bench, the Warriors vs Timberwolves series is far from over.