Thunder Edge Timberwolves in Game 4: SGA’s 40 Points Push OKC to 3-1 Series Lead
In Minneapolis on May 26, 2025 In a thrilling Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals at Target Centre, the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 128–126. They are now ahead in the series 3-1. In the playoffs, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) scored a career-high 40 points and 10 assists. Jalen Williams scored 34 points to help OKC get through a tough Timberwolves comeback. Minnesota's Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Jaden McDaniels each scored 23 and 22 points, but they lost a very close game. The Timberwolves need to win Game 5 to stay in the playoffs, but the Thunder are one game away from the NBA Finals.
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Game Recap: A Nail-Biting Shootout
Both teams hit each other at the start of the game, but OKC took a 37–30 lead in the first quarter because to SGA and Williams' scoring. Minnesota came back in the second quarter and cut the lead to 65-57 at halftime. The Timberwolves tied the game at 79-79 in the third quarter thanks to Donte DiVincenzo's three-point shooting. They went on a 22-11 run. OKC quickly took back control with SGA's drives and Williams' long-range shooting.
The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth battle, with Minnesota getting within two points many times. With 7:21 remaining, the Thunder went on a 10-2 run, led by SGA's three-pointer, to take a 105-100 lead. With 1:58 left, Jalen Williams hit a three-pointer that gave OKC a 120-114 lead. Minnesota reduced the lead to three in the last ten seconds, but Luguentz Dort's sixth foul at 7.2 seconds led to SGA's critical free throws at 6.1 seconds, which sealed the 128-126 win.
Key Performances: SGA and Williams Shine
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder): SGA dominated with 40 points (13/30 FG, 12/14 FT), 10 assists, and 6 rebounds, showcasing MVP-level versatility. His mid-range mastery and late-game free throws were decisive.
- Jalen Williams (Thunder): Williams was electric, scoring 34 points (12/23 FG, 5/8 3PT) and adding 5 assists. His timely three-pointers in the third and fourth quarters kept OKC ahead.
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Timberwolves): The bench sparkplug scored 23 points and dished 6 assists, hitting 5/8 from three, fueling Minnesota’s comeback efforts.
- Jaden McDaniels (Timberwolves): McDaniels contributed 22 points and 4 rebounds (9/15 FG), providing energy on both ends but falling short of leading a full rally.
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Tactical Breakdown: OKC’s Depth vs. Minnesota’s Mistakes
The Thunder’s top-ranked playoff defense (No. 1 in efficiency, 10.6 steals per game) contained Anthony Edwards, with Dort and Cason Wallace forcing tough shots. OKC’s 10-man rotation (8.7 players averaging 15+ minutes) maintained energy, with SGA and Williams combining for 15 assists and minimal turnovers. Their paint dominance (54-24 in Game 2) persisted, though less pronounced.
Minnesota’s 43% three-point shooting (down from Game 3’s 60%) was solid, but 21 turnovers proved costly, feeding OKC’s transition game. Coach Chris Finch’s third-quarter adjustments sparked a rally, but failure to contain SGA’s scoring outbursts hurt. Minnesota need to cut turnovers and boost perimeter consistency to stay alive.
| team | q1 | q2 | q3 | q4 | total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| thunder | 37 | 28 | 14 | 49 | 128 |
| timberwolves | 30 | 27 | 22 | 47 | 126 |
Turning Points
- 7:21 in Q4: Thunder’s 10-2 run, led by SGA’s three-pointer, pushed the lead to 105-100, regaining momentum.
- 1:58 in Q4: Williams’ three-pointer extended OKC’s lead to 120-114, forcing a Minnesota timeout.
- 6.1 Seconds Remaining: SGA’s two free throws secured a 128-125 lead, clinching the win despite Dort’s foul-out at 7.2 seconds.
Series Outlook
With a 3-1 lead, the Thunder return to Oklahoma City for Game 5, boasting a 6-1 playoff home record (five wins by 19+ points). Minnesota, facing elimination, must lean on Edwards and their Game 3 bench heroes like Terrence Shannon Jr. to spark a comeback. Improved ball security and three-point shooting are critical to extend the series. A Thunder win could cement their Finals berth, while the Timberwolves need a miracle to keep their season alive.
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