We thought Jimmy Butler would unleash a full-powered performance in Game 5 between the Warriors and Timberwolves, but we only got half of “Playoff Jimmy.”

17 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 11 free-throw attempts—those are normal numbers for Butler in the regular season. But for the Warriors on the brink of elimination, this was only half of what “Playoff Jimmy” usually brings to the table.

Of course, it’s possible that at his age and this stage of his career, his tank only has that much left. But Butler just signed a two-year, $120 million extension with the Warriors. His age will only increase, but the next two postseasons will still demand the full “Playoff Jimmy.”

The Warriors structured Butler’s contract to align with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green’s timelines. Along with Buddy Hield and the rookie-contract holdover, Podziemski, these five will form the core of Golden State’s roster for the next two seasons.

But for the Warriors, this is clearly insufficient. Their interior and wing positions remain glaring weaknesses, so this summer should prioritize reinforcements in these areas.

Thankfully for Golden State, Podziemski showed promising playoff mettle in the final game. While Butler delivered only half his usual impact, Podziemski dropped 28 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Among players who logged significant minutes (excluding Gary Payton II, who played sparingly), he had the highest plus-minus, losing by just 2 points in nearly 39 minutes.

A player’s role and usage are defined by delivering convincing performances in high-stakes moments. Steve Kerr took notice of Podziemski’s outing. If they redefine his role and tailor his training over the next two seasons, he could become a reliable asset beside Curry. His defensive versatility sets him apart—similar to Jordan Poole in some ways, but different in others.

Moody already has a long-term contract at guard, but his disappointing series—including losing his rotation spot—has dimmed his trade value.

Jonathan Kuminga averaged 20.8 points this round, shooting 8-of-19 from deep (42.1%). His performance was a gift to both the Warriors and himself. Once considered expendable, he might have settled for a contract well below Golden State’s $30 million offer. Now, he’s not only salvaged his future but also positioned himself as trade bait to deepen the roster.

Kuminga is a diamond in the rough. Four years might feel wasted, but it’s better late than never. His elite athleticism and improving three-point touch make him a potential third or even second starter for any team, and at 22, many franchises would covet him.

Butler is over 35, and few players at that age can sustain full-throttle performances every game. What about every other game? Maybe he’s realized he can’t even manage that against such tough odds—maybe it’s every three games now. Or perhaps he senses that no matter how hard he pushes, the Timberwolves are out of reach. At his age, injury risks are high—even young stars like Jayson Tatum have torn their Achilles.

Bottom line: The Warriors without Curry are a different team, and this outcome is understandable. They must focus on the next two seasons.

The Timberwolves, meanwhile, are the biggest playoff winners so far, reaching the Western Conference Finals in back-to-back years with 4-1 sweeps. Credit them for navigating trade crises and potentially entering a sustained period of dominance.

Today’s game was the most mature playoff performance we’ve seen from Anthony Edwards. Facing double-teams from the first possession, he distributed wisely, avoided forced shots, and stayed composed, tallying 22 points and a playoff-high 12 assists.

Next, the Timberwolves will face either the Thunder or Nuggets—likely the Thunder. That sets up a potential Western Finals showdown between two of the NBA’s future faces: Edwards and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA).

Fans love to reminisce about legends, mourning the end of eras, but often miss the birth of new ones. Like the Big Bang, every unimaginable legend starts somewhere.

This year’s Western Conference Finals might just be that beginning.