The veterans of the game will always say that the closeout game is the most difficult one in any series. For the Minnesota Timberwolves, even though everything seems to be working in their favor for their closeout game against the Golden State Warriors,

Stephen Curry has missed most of this series after being sidelined with a left hamstring strain in Game 1 vs. the Timberwolves. Going into Game 5 down 3-1 in the series, Curry's absence has been a back-breaker for the Warriors' morale.

With Jimmy Butler leading the way, Golden State will not go quietly in Game 5 — force a Game 6 and maybe they get Curry back, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. However, they will have to find new offense on the road five games into a playoff series, which is a big ask.

With Curry on the court, the Warriors might be contenders in these playoffs. Without him, they're starved and staring at an early exit.

LeBron James praised Anthony Edwards' evolution, saying the rising star "figured it out" against Lakers' schemes.