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2025 NBA West Finals G2 Preview - Minnesota vs. Oklahoma City: Can the Timberwolves level the series?

May 22, 2025 by Marc Jerbs

The Minnesota Timberwolves will look to regroup and even the series when they face the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Western Conference Finals on Thursday, May 22 at 8:30 PM EDT. After a lopsided 114-88 defeat in Game 1, Minnesota hopes to make key adjustments and deliver a stronger performance on the road.

Timberwolves: Searching for Answers and Offensive Rhythm

Minnesota's offense struggled mightily in Game 1, shooting just 35% from the field and 29.4% from beyond the arc. Julius Randle led the scoring with 28 points, but managed only eight after halftime as OKC tightened its defense. Anthony Edwards, who turned his ankle early in the game, finished with 18 points but was largely neutralized down the stretch.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Riding Momentum and Defensive Dominance

Oklahoma City showcased their depth and defensive prowess in the series opener, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 31-point performance. After a quiet first half, SGA erupted for 20 points in the second, underlining his ability to rise in clutch moments. The Thunder's smothering defense forced 17 turnovers and turned them into 31 points, creating separation in the second half.

The interior tandem of Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren played a pivotal role, combining for 27 points and 12 rebounds while limiting Rudy Gobert to just two points and three boards in 21 minutes. Off the bench, Alex Caruso and Jalen Williams provided a spark, maintaining energy and pressure throughout. The Thunder's dominance inside was a major factor—they attempted 50 shots in the paint compared to Minnesota's 23.

The Wolves' bench was unable to provide consistent support, shooting a dismal 7-for-36 as a unit. Moving forward, Minnesota must improve its shooting efficiency and take better care of the ball if they hope to compete with OKC's balanced attack.

Minnesota vs. Oklahoma City Sports Bet Odds

The Thunder are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Thunder are favored by 7.5 points, with a money line of -290.
• The Nuggets are the underdogs by 7.5 points, with a money line of +237.
• The over/under is set at 214.5 points, with the over at -110 and the under at -110.

Game 2 Tactical Outlook

Minnesota Timberwolves: Expect Minnesota to emphasize better offensive flow, particularly from Edwards, who has acknowledged the need to be more assertive and active off the ball. The frontcourt trio of Gobert, Jaden McDaniels, and Naz Reid will be crucial in countering Oklahoma City's physicality and controlling the glass. Leveraging their size could be key to regaining footing in the series.

Oklahoma City Thunder: The Thunder will aim to replicate their defensive pressure and interior control, with Holmgren and Hartenstein continuing to be key figures. Gilgeous-Alexander's ability to draw contact - evident in his 14 free throw attempts in Game 1—will be instrumental once again. Depth players like Caruso and Williams will be counted on to sustain intensity and disrupt Minnesota's rhythm.

As the series continues, the Timberwolves face a critical opportunity to avoid falling into a 0-2 deficit. Meanwhile, the Thunder will look to extend their lead and protect home court with the same tenacity that defined Game 1. Expect physical matchups, strategic shifts, and playoff intensity as both teams fight for a trip to the NBA Finals.

Key Takeaways

• Oklahoma City's interior dominance and defense were key in Game 1.
• SGA's second-half surge highlighted his star power.
• Minnesota needs improved production from Edwards and the bench.
• Game 2 is pivotal for the Wolves to swing momentum in their favor.

Despite the lopsided Game 1 outcome, this Western Conference Finals matchup could shape up to be a fierce and evenly matched battle between two rising powerhouses. Game 2 promises another intense chapter in this high-stakes playoff showdown.

2025 Comparative Minnesota vs. Oklahoma City Postseason Stats

Minnesota Timberwolves	VS	Oklahoma City Thunder
106.4	Points Per Game	116.8
42.0	Rebounds Per Game	46.2
24.3	Assists Per Game	25.7
7.8	Steals Per Game	10.8
13.7	Turnovers Per Game	10.8

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