Oklahoma City Thunder One Win Away from NBA Finals After Beating Timberwolves in Game 4
The Oklahoma City Thunder are now just one win away from reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012 after beating the Minnesota Timberwolves 128-126 in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals on Monday night.
The Thunder, who finished the regular season with the best record (68 wins and 14 losses), now lead the series 3-1. They can seal the series in Game 5 on Wednesday night.
The team showed why they’ve been so strong all season — combining solid defence, attacking power, and strong teamwork.
Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams Shine
NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with a playoff career-best 40 points and 10 assists. He was just one rebound away from a triple-double and made five free throws in the last 14.5 seconds to help his team secure the win.
Jalen Williams also played a key role, scoring 34 points — his highest ever in a playoff game. He scored 14 of those in the final quarter and made two important three-pointers late in the game to keep the Thunder ahead.
Strong Support from Holmgren
Chet Holmgren added 21 points for Oklahoma City, shooting 9-of-14 from the field. He also collected seven rebounds and blocked three shots, showing why the Thunder are ranked among the best teams both in attack and defence.
Timberwolves Bench Impresses
Although the Timberwolves lost, their bench players performed well. Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 23 points, while Donte DiVincenzo added 21. Both made five three-pointers each. Naz Reid scored 11 points, and Terrence Shannon Jr. chipped in with nine.
Key Players Struggle for Timberwolves
Minnesota’s star Anthony Edwards had a quiet game, scoring just 16 points and making only one of seven three-point attempts. Julius Randle also had another poor showing, managing only five points. His struggles continued from earlier games in the series.
Turnovers Hurt Timberwolves Again
Turnovers once again cost the Timberwolves. They lost the ball 23 times, which led to 22 points for Oklahoma City. In earlier games, turnovers also played a big role in Minnesota’s defeats.
Late Fouls Secure Win for Thunder
In the final seconds, with Thunder leading 126-123, Oklahoma City used smart fouling tactics to stop Minnesota from taking a game-tying shot. They fouled Naz Reid and Anthony Edwards, sending them to the free-throw line instead. It helped Oklahoma City hold on to their narrow lead.
Game 5 will be played on Wednesday night, and the Thunder will have the chance to finish the series and book their place in the NBA Finals.
