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The Minnesota Timberwolves are chasing their first-ever NBA Finals appearance. After 

, they now face the Golden State Warriors Tuesday in Round 2.

If the Wolves win this best-of-seven second round, they will become one of two Western Conference semifinalists and advance to play either the Oklahoma City Thunder or the Denver Nuggets for the conference title. 

Many Wolves fans may be experiencing deja vu after the team’s failed attempt for this title last season against the Dallas Mavericks. This makes it the first time a Timberwolves team has advanced to this level of the playoffs for a 

Are you a longtime Timberwolves fan prepping for this second-round series? Or a new fan hopping on the bandwagon now that they have advanced past Round 1 for a second year in a row? Maybe you’re just wondering what is going on in the NBA as the WNBA counts down to their season kickoff? Regardless why, here is everything you need to know. 

What makes the Timberwolves team notable? 

Round 1 had some major highlights along with moments of disappointment. 

Overall, the team has exemplified a defensive determination, a flexible lineup both defensively and offensively and a confidence in scoring while keeping their opponents in check. At times Edwards has been shaky, but his constant energy has brought forth a confident leader and changed the team’s demeanor. 

 still led the first-round series with an average of 26.8 points, 8.4 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game. Also critical to their success was 

 was on fire in Game 5 with 27 points and 24 rebounds. It made him the first player since 1996 to post at least 25 points and 20 rebounds on 80 percent shooting in a playoff game.

The Wolves face the Warriors at home Tuesday, guaranteeing a ferocious Minnesota crowd that seeks redemption after their beloved team’s let down last year. It will truly be the definition of a home-court advantage. 

Head coach Chris Finch continues to dominate tactical adjustments. He has led his team to slow down superstars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic in the first round. 

sprained a knee ligament in Lakers' final loss to Wolves, an AP source says

This season alone, Edwards has been fined seven times for a total of $370,000. $200,000 worth of fines were from December alone.

Off the court, this season has been shadowed by ownership drama. There is an ongoing legal battle over the team’s ownership between long-standing owner Glen Taylor and a group led by 

The Warriors-Wolves match up is the first time since 2023 that two teams seeded 5th or lower have faced off in the second round. The Wolves are the No. 6 seed hosting the No. 7 Warriors.

The Warriors feature Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and short time-Timberwolf, Jimmy Butler, who was acquired by the Warriors at the trade deadline. He helped Golden State reach a 27-10 record. This matchup will pit a current face of the NBA in Stephen Curry against an heir apparent in Anthony Edwards, both Olympic backcourt teammates. 

Minnesota is shooting for their first-ever NBA Finals appearance. They are favored fourth to win the NBA title, according to BetMGM Sportsbook: At first is Oklahoma City,  followed by Boston, Cleveland, then Minnesota.

In order to make it, the Wolves must maintain their defensive intensity and all-stars like Edwards need to continue to own the court. 

Schedule (times are in Central Standard Time)

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

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Anika Besst

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The Minnesota Timberwolves are chasing their first-ever NBA Finals appearance. After knocking out the Lakers, they now face the Golden State Warriors Tuesday in Round 2. Many Wolves fans may be experiencing deja vu after the team’s failed attempt for this title last season against the Dallas Mavericks.

Game 4 of the playoff series between the Timberwolves and Lakers

Timberwolves playoff run: Everything to know about Minnesota’s basketball semifinals

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