Minnesota TimberwolvesOpen full analysis
Oklahoma City ThunderOpen full analysis
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 113–105 on November 26 at Paycom Center, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dominating the contest by scoring 40 points to lead the home team to victory. Oklahoma City controlled the fourth quarter decisively, outscoring Minnesota 35–34 in the final period to secure the win despite a spirited Timberwolves comeback attempt. Anthony Edwards paced Minnesota with 31 points, while Trey Shannon Jr. added 18 off the bench, but the Wolves' 14 turnovers and 41.3 field-goal percentage proved costly in a low-scoring affair that finished well under the Vegas total of 226.5. The Thunder shot just 47.5 percent from the field but made only 7 three-pointers, relying instead on their defensive intensity—holding Minnesota to 106.8 offensive rating while posting a 114.5 rating themselves. Oklahoma City's ball security (7 turnovers) and Minnesota's 25 assists couldn't overcome the Timberwolves' inefficiency, as the visitors grabbed 44 rebounds but couldn't convert enough opportunities. This defensive grind underscores Oklahoma City's capacity to win without relying on perimeter shooting, a critical trait as the Thunder aim to maintain their conference standing.
