In the Western Conference quarterfinals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the Golden State Warriors find themselves fighting to stay alive rather than chasing another title. Winners of four titles since 2015, the Warriors now face a new test—advancing without injured star Stephen Curry. Their Game 1 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center sparked renewed hope, but the team’s future remains uncertain. As the series unfolds, fans and bettors alike are closely watching how Curry’s absence affects Golden State’s chances—and how the betting markets are adjusting in response.
A Game 1 Win — But At What Cost?
Golden State managed a gritty 99–88 win in Game 1, despite Curry exiting early with what was later confirmed as a Grade 1 hamstring strain. That diagnosis means he’ll miss at least a week — likely ruling him out for Games 2 through 4.
Losing Curry, especially in the playoffs, is a massive blow. He’s more than just a scorer — he’s the team’s engine, drawing defenders and opening up the floor. His absence changes everything, especially in tight series matchups where every possession matters.
Still, the Warriors found a way. Buddy Hield stepped up, dropping 24 points. Jimmy Butler added 20, and Draymond Green filled the stat sheet with 18 points, 8 boards, and 6 assists. It wasn’t flashy, but it was enough.
And it reminded the league: Golden State still has depth — and pride.
What the Betting Odds Reveal
Before the playoffs began, sportsbooks had the Warriors as mid-tier contenders — behind teams like Boston, Denver, and Milwaukee. Curry’s injury shifted those odds sharply.
According to the latest numbers, Golden State’s series odds against Minnesota narrowed after Game 1, but their NBA Finals betting odds took a noticeable dip. That makes sense. Without Curry, the Warriors’ scoring efficiency drops, and spacing suffers.
If you’re tracking the Warriors money line, it fluctuated significantly following Curry’s injury announcement. Bettors who jumped on early may have snagged value. But even now, there’s interest in backing a veteran team with championship pedigree — even without its top star.
Betting Predictions Without Curry
Historically, the Warriors struggle without Curry in the playoffs. This year’s squad is different. Butler and Hield provide veteran firepower. Draymond continues to anchor the defense. And coach Steve Kerr knows how to adjust on the fly.
What do NBA Playoffs predictions look like now?
- Short-term: If Golden State can steal another win without Curry, they’ll control the series,
- Mid-range: Curry’s return by Game 5 could flip the narrative, especially if the series is tied,
- Long-term: Without Curry at 100%, deep Finals aspirations remain a long shot, but not impossible.
That’s what makes betting on this team so tricky — and so exciting.
Public Betting Trends and Insights
One of the standout storylines this postseason has been the betting market’s response to injury news. In Stephen Curry’s case, the reaction was immediate—many bettors adjusted their Golden State wagers or redirected attention to teams with fewer uncertainties.
Still, some held firm.
The NBA Finals betting news shows a steady group of bettors still backing the Warriors. They’ve seen this script before: a wounded Warriors team, counted out and written off, finding a way to win.
These loyal backers point to the team’s culture, not just talent. They know how to manage adversity. They’ve done it before. And in the playoffs, belief sometimes matters more than stats.
For others, the value lies in volatility. The odds swing with every game and every report on Curry’s recovery. That kind of movement creates opportunity, especially if you follow NBA Finals betting predictions closely.
X-Factors That Could Decide the Series
As the series progresses, several key variables could shape the final outcome. These are the most influential elements bettors and fans should monitor closely:
1. Draymond’s Consistency
We know Draymond can anchor a defense. But can he consistently contribute offensively? If he keeps putting up 15–18 points, Golden State can survive the early Curry-less stretch.
2. Hield’s Outside Shooting
In Game 1, Hield shot over 62.5% from three. If that continues, it gives the Warriors a perimeter threat they desperately need without Curry drawing defenders.
3. Steve Kerr’s Lineup Rotations
Kerr will need to get creative. Expect more minutes for Gary Payton II, Moses Moody, and even some surprise lineups featuring four wings. Adjustments could win or lose a game.
4. Curry’s Health Timeline
Perhaps the most important factor. If he returns at 90% by Game 5, Golden State’s chances improve dramatically. But if there’s a setback? That’s a different story.
NBA Finals Betting Insights: Opportunity or Challenge?
Let’s explore where the real value lies.
From a NBA Finals betting insights perspective, Golden State now sits in the mid-to-low tier of remaining contenders — around +2800 to +3000 depending on the book. That’s a huge shift from their +950 position just a few weeks ago.
If you believe Curry will return and the Warriors can survive Minnesota, that’s great value.
But it’s a big “if.” That’s what makes the Warriors money line such a compelling watch this week. Every update — every minute Curry is on the court or sideline — shifts the landscape.
Smart bettors are using live betting and quarter spreads to play the swings. Others are waiting for confirmation on Curry’s return before placing any big bets.
Either way, the volatility is where the action is.
Can the Warriors Actually Make a Run?
On paper, the challenge is significant.
They’re missing their leader, playing a young and hungry Minnesota team, and facing possible matchups with Denver or Dallas next.
But remember: this is still the Warriors. They’ve beaten expectations before. They’ve won games they shouldn’t. And they have one of the most playoff-tested rosters in the league.
If they can push this series to six or seven games and get Curry back on the court, anything’s possible.
They just need to buy time — and stay alive long enough for their star to return.
The Bottom Line
The Warriors’ 2025 playoff run is hanging by a thread. But that thread is golden — and it’s not fraying just yet.
The odds aren’t in their favor. Curry’s hamstring injury puts them at a clear disadvantage. But their Game 1 win, veteran leadership, and championship culture are keeping hope alive.
For fans and bettors tracking NBA Finals betting news, the Warriors are still in the conversation — if only just. And as long as they are, the NBA Finals betting predictions will keep changing.
The Warriors’ playoff hopes remain uncertain, but if history has shown anything, it’s that they shouldn’t be counted out until the final buzzer sounds.
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