The Oklahoma City Thunder host the Minnesota Timberwolves tonight at Paycom Center for Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals.
The Thunder lead the series 1–0 after a dominant 114–88 win in Game 1.
In Game 1, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was brilliant, scoring 31 points — including 20 in the second half — and leading an aggressive Thunder defense that forced 19 turnovers and turned them into 31 points. The Thunder also limited Minnesota to just 34.9% shooting from the field and an atrocious 15-of-51 from three.
Minnesota’s offense stalled outside of Julius Randle, who finished with 28 points on 9-of-13 shooting. But the rest of the Timberwolves were ice-cold, shooting just 28.6% from the field.
Anthony Edwards struggled, finishing with just 18 points on 5-of-13 shooting. Donte DiVincenzo also failed to make an impact, scoring just 9 points and finishing with more turnovers than field goals.
If Minnesota is to even the series, Edwards needs to respond with a high-volume, high-efficiency scoring night — particularly from three.
The Timberwolves also need steadier play from Mike Conley to settle their offense against Oklahoma City’s ball pressure — and DiVincenzo must break out of his slump or risk being played off the floor.
The Timberwolves were plagued by turnovers in Game 1. Better ball security is non-negotiable if they want to avoid falling into a 2–0 hole. They’ll also need much more from their bench, which was outscored and out-hustled. Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker could be X-factors if they can provide scoring and perimeter defense.
The Thunder will look to replicate their Game 1 formula: pressure defense, ball movement, and a balanced scoring attack. If Gilgeous-Alexander continues to lead and the role players stay consistent, Oklahoma City is poised to head to Minnesota with a 2–0 series lead.
But expect Minnesota to bounce back tonight, with a 30-point-plus night from Edwards to lead the Timberwolves to a low-margin victory and even the series at one game apiece.
Prediction: Thunder in seven.
How to Watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Tonight’s Timberwolves-Thunder game tips off just after 8:30 PM Eastern.
The game airs live on ESPN and streams on the ESPN app and website.
Timberwolves vs. Thunder
Date and Time: Thursday, May 22, 2025, 8:30 PM Eastern
Venue: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
TV: ESPN
Streaming: ESPN app and website, Hulu + Live TV, Sling, YouTube TV
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