By George Devine, Sr.

The Golden State Warriors electrified a sellout crowd at Oracle Arena with a 130-120 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, after being behind by 15 at one point. This means Golden State has now secured the 6th seed in the NBA playoffs.

The W’s did it without the services of center Andrew Bogut. Bogut, who has been a key to Golden State’s inside defense, was examined the previous evening for a rib injury and it was found to be a fracture. His ability to take part in the playoffs is uncertain.

Stephen Curry was sizzling in the first half but slowed down later. His point total was 32, spread over 41:57. Moreover, he contributed 15 assists. Picking it up in the second half were David Lee with 25 points and Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, both with 20. Lee had 9 rebounds and Green 12. Both were in danger with 4 fouls. Jermaine O’Neal had 10 points.

For Minnesota, Kevin Love scored 40 and had 9 assists. Corey Brewer played for 40:37 and hit for 22, contributing 5 assists. Gorgul Dieng and Keri Martin each had 14 points; Dieng had 11 boards. Ricky Rubio added 15 points.

The Warriors’ next game is at Denver on Wednesday, April 16 at 7:30 p.m. PDT.