The Golden State Warriors' season ended in an unfortunate fashion against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA Playoffs. Many fans were optimistic after the Warriors had defeated the Houston Rockets in the first round, but an injury to Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals proved to be too much to overcome.
One thing that the Warriors' opponents would exploit was Golden State's lack of size. They would run two-big lineups and the Warriors just couldn't match the pure size of Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert brought to the floor.
There was speculation that Curry could've returned if the series had gone to six games. Despite the Warriors taking Game 1 of the series, the Timberwolves went on to win the next four games.
After watching how these playoffs had played out, the Warriors and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. are likely going to look to add a big man to their lineup to go alongside Draymond Green. There were rumors that the Warriors would look to add Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen, as his blend of size and shooting ability would be a perfect fit in Golden State.
However, according to The Athletic's Anthony Slater, the Warriors are unlikely to pursue Markkanen.
The Warriors are unlikely to pursue Lauri Markkanen, per @anthonyVslater pic.twitter.com/AKenVidvCa
— Ball Report (@BallReportX) June 11, 2025
While a stretch big like Markkanen made sense on some levels, he's not necessarily the bruiser down low that would've been able to fight off bigs like Randle and Gober for rebounds. The Warriors will now look elsewhere for a player to anchor their defense.
This could prove to be the Warriors' last run considering the age of Curry and Green in addition to the fact that head coach Steve Kerr's contract is up after next season.
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