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Steve Kerr's Blunt Opinion of Buddy Hield Amid Steph Curry Injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Mariano | Last updated May 7, 2025 2:22 AM ET

The Golden State Warriors drew first blood in their second-round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves after grabbing the win, 99-88, in Game 1 at Target Center on Tuesday.

The victory, however, could be costly. Steph Curry exited the game in the second quarter after feeling a pain in his leg. He did not return and it was later revealed that he strained his hamstring.

"We're definitely game-planning for him to not be available on Thursday, but we don't know yet," said coach Steve Kerr after the game. "With a hamstring, it's hard to imagine that he would play."

While the situation looks bleak for Golden State, the team still has weapons in Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green and Buddy Hield.

Hield, in particular, picked up where he left off in their first-round win against the Houston Rockets and led the scoring against the Timberwolves with a game-high 24 points, including five three-pointers.

With Curry possibly out for an extended period, Kerr underscored Hield's importance.

"Following up that amazing Game 7 (against the Rockets), he was just crucial for us tonight," added Kerr. "I think he started out the game 0-for-7.

"We needed every one of his 24 points. With Steph out, we have few options offensively."

The 32-year-old Hield exploded for 33 points, built on nine three-pointers, in their series-clinching victory over Houston.

Kerr also credited the sweet-shooting guard for sinking a crucial shot in the fourth quarter, which helped them "hang on." Additionally, he acknowledged his players' effort on the defensive end.

"Guys really did a good job of just defending and trying to run off misses to get our offense going before they (Timberwolves) can set up their defense," said the four-time champion coach.

"Not that it was a great transition game for us since we only had six fastbreak points. But when you're defending like that, you always have a chance (to win)."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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