Thunder Triumphs Over Timberwolves in Game 4: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Shines with 40 Points While OKC Silences Anthony Edwards

Oklahoma City bounced back strong from their Game 3 setback. The Thunder showcased their solid defense and sharp offense, winning a nail-biter against the Minnesota Timberwolves, 128-126, in Game 4 of the Western Conference finals. With this victory, Oklahoma City takes a commanding 3-1 series lead and is just one win away from the NBA Finals.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the standout player, scoring a career playoff-high of 40 points. In contrast, Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards struggled, finishing with only 16 points. The Thunder will have a chance to end the series at home in Game 5 on Wednesday.

Oklahoma City set the momentum early. They forced seven turnovers, finishing the first quarter with a 37-30 lead. Edwards didn’t even attempt a shot until late in the quarter, highlighting the Thunder’s defensive pressure.

Minnesota tried to fight back, shooting 50% from the field and making 8 of 18 three-pointers in the first half, but still ended the half down 65-57. The Timberwolves found some offensive spark from Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Donte DiVincenzo off the bench, who combined for 44 points, but 22 turnovers were too costly.

The game had its tense moments. In the third quarter, Minnesota tied the game at 79-79, but the Thunder quickly responded with an 8-0 run to regain control. Late in the fourth, a desperate Timberwolves push narrowed the gap to 111-109. However, Gilgeous-Alexander and his teammates held strong, expanding the lead back to seven with a timely three-pointer.

Gilgeous-Alexander not only scored but also contributed 10 assists and eight rebounds. Jalen Williams also had a standout game, scoring 34 points, while Chet Holmgren added 21 points with critical defensive plays.

Part of the Thunder’s success came from limiting Edwards and Julius Randle, both of whom had off nights. Edwards recorded only four points in the first half and finished with just 16. Randle scored a mere five points, and the team’s leading scorer was Jaden McDaniels, who contributed 22 points.

Experts note that the Thunder’s defensive strategy is paying off. In a recent article, former NBA player and analyst Jalen Rose emphasized how critical disciplined defense can be in the playoffs. He stated, “Defensive adjustments can swing a series. Stay intense, and you can force the opponent to make mistakes.”

As the series approaches its conclusion, the Thunder look to build on this momentum. With a young, dynamic roster and strong leadership, they seem poised for a deep playoff run.



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Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, Oklahoma City, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Western Conference finals, Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, The Thunder, Jaden McDaniels, Chet Holmgren, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Luguentz Dort