The Oklahoma City Thunder staged a late-game surge to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves 130-123 on Saturday night at Target Center, overcoming an early deficit and a strong defensive performance from rookie Jaylen Clark before his injury.
Timberwolves Start Fast, Thunder Respond
Without key players Rudy Gobert, Julius Randle, and Donte DiVincenzo, Minnesota opened the game with intensity, jumping to an 11-5 lead. Clark’s defensive pressure on the Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander disrupted their early offensive rhythm, leading to fast-break opportunities for Minnesota. Following a timeout, Oklahoma City took control by outscoring Minnesota 45-20 over 12 minutes, successfully exploiting perimeter shooting and inside presence. Minnesota fought back, fueled by Anthony Edwards, who led the team with 29 points on 8-of-21 shooting, executing a 30-9 run to reclaim the lead before halftime. Edwards hit a step-back three-pointer over Chet Holmgren to give the Timberwolves a 63-61 advantage at halftime.
Clark’s Injury Shifts Momentum
Continuing their momentum, the Timberwolves extended their lead to seven points midway through the third quarter. Unfortunately for Minnesota, Clark exited the game after hitting his head on the floor during a layup attempt, later being ruled out due to neck pain. With Clark sidelined, the Thunder quickly went on an 8-0 run, reclaiming the lead. Gilgeous-Alexander took full advantage of Minnesota’s defensive lapses, showcased by his remarkable ability to score.
The Thunder finished the game on fire, sinking five three-pointers within six possessions, turning what was once a five-point deficit to an eleven-point lead with just four minutes remaining.
Clark’s Defensive Impact Recognised
Despite limited minutes, Clark made his mark defensively. The Timberwolves had outscored the Thunder by 20 points during the 18 minutes he played but were outscored by 27 points during the 30 minutes he was absent. "He was playing great. We missed his tenacity out there," said Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch after the game, recognizing Clark's defensive capabilities. Finch praised Clark’s ability to navigate screens and control contact both on and off the ball as instrumental to his defensive success. After the game, Clark reported being in good spirits and confirmed he would travel with the team. His status for the upcoming match remains uncertain.
Gilgeous-Alexander Leads Thunder to Victory
On the Thunder's side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander starred with 37 points on 13-of-24 shooting, contributing significantly with eight rebounds and eight assists. His dominance was pivotal to ensuring Oklahoma City’s win, solidifying the team’s current standing within the Western Conference playoff race. Off the bench, Minnesota's Alexander-Walker sparkled with 18 points, including four three-pointers, and Naz Reid added another 16 points.
Quick Turnaround for the Timberwolves
The Timberwolves will face the Thunder again on Sunday night for the second game of their back-to-back series, marking their third meeting within just four days. Reid expressed confidence heading to the rematch stating, "I know I’m built for it. A lot of guys in here are built for it. We’re gonna go out there and compete. That’s just what we do." The challenge is set as both teams prepare for rapid-fire competition following two exciting matchups.
The Thunder's latest triumph showcases their resilience and firepower, highlighting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's skill and the need for the Timberwolves to adapt quickly to player challenges as they look for redemption against the Thunder shortly.