The Western Conference playoff picture is intensifying, and a key matchup in San Francisco between the Golden State Warriors and the Minnesota Timberwolves is taking center stage. Both teams are navigating critical stretches as the regular season winds down, with playoff positioning hanging in the balance.
Minnesota has slipped to sixth place in the crowded Western Conference standings after three consecutive losses. March began promisingly, even allowing them to reach third place during a five-game winning streak. Their last victory came against the Raptors 115-107, but since then, defeats against the Magic, Lakers, and Clippers – the latter by a significant 22-point margin – have stalled their momentum. The 153-128 loss to the Clippers exposed defensive vulnerabilities. “Obviously, it’s unacceptable,” Timberwolves coach Chris Finch stated. “They didn’t score less than 35 points in any quarter. Absolutely unacceptable defensive performance.”
The Warriors are as well seeking answers after three straight losses, the most recent two going to overtime against the Utah Jazz and the Chicago Bulls. A significant injury situation complicates matters; Steph Curry has missed the last 15 games and will be re-evaluated on March 21st. “Both were games we had a good handle on,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “We had the lead late, it was a game we should have won. That’s the NBA, especially when you’re banged up. You’re not going to roll over anybody. Games are going to be tight. You’ve got to close them out. We haven’t done that the last two nights.” Currently holding the ninth seed in the West – a play-in tournament position – Golden State has a 5-10 record during Curry’s absence. With only 17 regular season games remaining, the Warriors will rely on their younger players to step up.
The Warriors have lost two of the three head-to-head matchups against Minnesota this season, making the Timberwolves the favorites heading into Friday night’s contest. The game, played at Chase Center in San Francisco, is a crucial test for both teams as they jockey for playoff positioning.
Other NBA Games on March 13, 2026
Here’s a look at the other games on the NBA schedule for March 13, 2026:
- Detroit Pistons – Memphis Grizzlies
- Toronto Raptors – Phoenix Suns
- Dallas Mavericks – Cleveland Cavaliers
- Indiana Pacers – Recent York Knicks
- Houston Rockets – New Orleans Pelicans
- Portland Trail Blazers – Utah Jazz
- Los Ángeles Clippers – Chicago Bulls
- Philadelphia 76ers – Brooklyn Nets
- Atlanta Hawks – Milwaukee Bucks
- San Antonio Spurs – Charlotte Hornets
- Boston Celtics – Washington Wizards
On Friday night, Anthony Edwards led the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 127-117 victory over the Golden State Warriors, scoring 42 points in a game where the Warriors were hampered by injuries. Edwards shot 13-for-22 from the field and made all 12 of his free throw attempts. The Warriors, playing without Curry, saw Brandin Podziemski score 25 points and Kristaps Porzingis add 20, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Edwards’ performance and a strong Timberwolves showing.
The Warriors’ injury woes continued during the game, with three additional players ruled out. This further complicated their efforts to contain Edwards, who consistently found ways to score against the Golden State defense. The Timberwolves’ victory solidifies their position in the Western Conference playoff race, while the Warriors face an uphill battle to improve their standing without their star player.
The first half saw the Timberwolves establish a commanding lead, going into halftime with a 69-48 advantage. Edwards was particularly dominant in the first half, scoring 20 points and making it tricky for the Warriors to uncover answers defensively. Despite a spirited rally in the second half, the Warriors were unable to close the gap, ultimately falling short against a determined Timberwolves team.
This game highlights the challenges facing the Warriors as they navigate Curry’s absence and a series of other injuries. The team will need to rely on its depth and the development of its younger players to remain competitive in the Western Conference. For the Timberwolves, the victory is a significant boost as they aim to secure a higher seed in the playoffs.
What’s Next: The Minnesota Timberwolves will continue their road trip, facing the [next opponent to be verified]. The Golden State Warriors will return home to host [next opponent to be verified].
What are your thoughts on the Timberwolves’ win and the Warriors’ struggles? Share your opinions in the comments below!
