Golden State was without Curry Thursday in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves due to a hamstring strain, and it showed. The Timberwolves won 117–93, and after the game Warriors coach Steve Kerr conceded a need to find direction.

During the Warriors' 131-116 road loss to the Houston Rockets in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series on Wednesday, Rockets forward Dillon Brooks contacted Warriors superstar guard Stephen Curry's right hand following a shot. No foul was called, but it was significant since Curry has been nursing an injured right thumb for much of the season.

Without Curry, Jimmy Butler will need to take the reins on offense, while Buddy Hield will continue to get plenty of looks. However, Kerr mentioned defense as the key to winning the series, which means Draymond Green's role will become even more important than before.