Thunder outlast Timberwolves 128-126 in Game 4 to take 3-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals. With this win, the Oklahoma City Thunder are now one victory away from the NBA Finals after holding off a tough Minnesota Timberwolves team in a close game.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with a playoff career-high 40 points, while Jalen Williams contributed 34 points, helping the Thunder outlast the Timberwolves 128-126 in Game 4 to take a 3-1 lead. Both teams shot efficiently, but Oklahoma City’s hustle on the offensive glass and timely plays made the difference.
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The Thunder once again showed why they are the favorites by outlasting the Timberwolves 128-126 in Game 4 to take a 3-1 lead. Their strong offense and timely defense proved decisive, especially when Minnesota tried to mount a comeback.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Delivers a Career Night
3 Takeaways from the OKC Thunder’s Win on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander bounced back from a poor Game 3 performance by putting together a playoff career-high 40 points. He also added 9 rebounds and 10 assists, playing 40 minutes and keeping the Thunder in control at critical moments. His ability to draw fouls and attack off the dribble kept Minnesota’s defense on its heels.
Meanwhile, Jalen Williams chipped in with 34 points on 13-for-24 shooting, including six made three-pointers. His outside shooting provided the Thunder with key momentum boosts, especially when the Timberwolves looked ready to retake the lead.
Minnesota’s Bench Shines, but Turnovers Hurt
The Timberwolves kept the game close thanks to outstanding bench production. Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 23 points on 9-of-15 shooting, including five three-pointers. Additionally, Jaden McDaniels posted 22 points and 4 steals, while Donte DiVincenzo added 21 points with five threes of his own.
However, Minnesota struggled to take care of the ball. The team committed 21 turnovers, which the Thunder converted into 22 points. Despite their efficient shooting, those mistakes proved too costly down the stretch.
Stars Fail to Deliver for Minnesota
While the Timberwolves’ bench stepped up, their stars were unusually quiet. Anthony Edwards scored just 16 points on 5-of-13 shooting. Despite adding six assists and four rebounds, he was unable to find his rhythm from beyond the arc, going just 1-for-7.
Julius Randle struggled even more. In 28 minutes, he finished with only 5 points on 1-of-7 shooting. His four turnovers contributed to Minnesota’s issues on offense, and his limited impact was felt throughout the game.
Chet Holmgren’s Defense and Energy Lift Thunder
Though overshadowed by the scoring duo, Chet Holmgren played a key role in OKC’s win. He scored 21 points on 9-of-14 shooting and added 7 rebounds along with 3 blocks. His shot-blocking presence helped stop several Minnesota drives in the paint.
Notably, Holmgren’s defense in the fourth quarter helped the Thunder maintain a narrow lead, especially when the Timberwolves made their final push.
Both Teams Efficient, but OKC Wins Key Battles
Statistically, both teams were nearly identical. Each shot above 50 percent from the field and over 43 percent from three-point range. Both teams also finished with 19 offensive rebounds. However, OKC took 11 more shots thanks to their better control of the ball and offensive execution in crunch time.
Minnesota’s bench outscored Oklahoma City’s 64 to 27, but it wasn’t enough to overcome their turnovers and the lack of production from Edwards and Randle.
Game 5 Could Be the End for Minnesota
Looking ahead, Game 5 will take place in Oklahoma City on Wednesday night. The Thunder have the chance to close out the series on their home court and reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves face a must-win situation. If they hope to extend the series, they’ll need stronger performances from their star players and a more disciplined showing overall.
Conclusion:
By outlasting the Timberwolves 128-126 in Game 4 to take a 3-1 lead, the Thunder have put themselves in a commanding position. Now, all eyes turn to Game 5, where Oklahoma City can close out the series and punch their ticket to the NBA Finals.
