The Oklahoma City Thunder made a thunderous statement in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, dismantling the Minnesota Timberwolves 114–88 at the Paycom Center. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s electric performance, OKC seized a 1–0 series lead in emphatic fashion.
Game-Changing Performance from Gilgeous-Alexander
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his postseason dominance, dropping 31 points and dishing out 9 assists. After a relatively quiet first half, the All-NBA guard erupted in the second, pouring in 20 points and dictating the tempo on both ends. It marked his fourth straight playoff game with 30+ points — a testament to his rising superstardom.
Timberwolves Crumble Under Defensive Pressure
Minnesota struggled to find any offensive rhythm, shooting under 35% from the field. The Thunder’s suffocating defense forced 19 turnovers, converting them into 31 points. Every mistake by the Timberwolves was punished — and quickly.
Anthony Edwards, who briefly exited in the first quarter with an ankle scare, returned in the second quarter and finished with 18 points. However, he failed to assert himself in the closing stages. Julius Randle was the lone bright spot for the Timberwolves, scoring 28 points — including 20 in the first half.
Balanced Thunder Attack Behind the Blowout
Oklahoma City’s win wasn’t just about Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Jalen Williams chipped in 19 points and 8 rebounds, while rookie Chet Holmgren added 15 points and 7 boards. The Thunder shot an impressive 50% from the field and an even better 52.4% from beyond the arc, putting the Timberwolves’ defense on its heels all night.
Looking Ahead
The Timberwolves will need to regroup quickly. Their inability to protect the ball or hit shots proved costly, and OKC’s defensive intensity gave them no room to breathe. If Minnesota hopes to even the series, they’ll need a sharper game plan — and a more assertive showing from Anthony Edwards. Game 2 is set for Thursday night, again in Oklahoma City.
Key Stats Recap:
- OKC: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – 31 pts, 9 ast | Jalen Williams – 19 pts, 8 reb | Chet Holmgren – 15 pts, 7 reb
- MIN: Julius Randle – 28 pts | Anthony Edwards – 18 pts
