Thunder Look to Extend Winning Streak as Timberwolves Seek to Bounce Back
The final set of regular-season games before the NBA All-Star Weekend features an exciting Western Conference clash between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Target Center on Friday.
The Timberwolves enter this game looking to snap a two-game losing streak, while the Thunder arrive with momentum, riding a seven-game winning run. Both teams will be eager to make a statement as they continue their push for playoff positioning.
Match Preview
The Minnesota Timberwolves had a golden opportunity to return to winning ways in their last outing, facing a Milwaukee Bucks side without key stars Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, they fell short in a narrow 103-101 defeat on Thursday.
After trailing by 12 points in the first quarter, Chris Finch’s squad mounted a strong comeback, cutting the deficit to one by halftime. They even took the lead with 48 seconds remaining but ultimately failed to close out the game.
Anthony Edwards and Naz Reid were standout performers, combining for 50 points and 20 rebounds. Their contributions were crucial down the stretch, scoring each of the Timberwolves’ final 15 points in the last five minutes.
The Timberwolves have now lost three straight games for the first time since January and currently sit seventh in the Western Conference standings. They share the same number of wins as the sixth-placed Los Angeles Clippers, though the Clippers have played two fewer games.
Friday’s matchup marks the first of two meetings between these teams in a 10-day span, with Minnesota also facing a tough test against the Houston Rockets in between. The Timberwolves will be motivated to avenge their 113-105 loss to Oklahoma City earlier this season and even the series.
Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder have established themselves as one of the leading championship contenders this season. Their latest victory, a 115-102 comeback win over the Miami Heat on Thursday, highlighted their resilience and dominance.
The Thunder trailed by 21 points late in the second quarter but delivered a spectacular turnaround, including a 24-0 run in the fourth quarter while holding Miami to just eight points.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was once again the driving force for Oklahoma City, finishing with 32 points, five rebounds, and nine assists in his final game before heading to the All-Star festivities in San Francisco. Jalen Williams also played a key role, contributing 18 points and six rebounds.
Now with an 8-1 record over their last nine games, the Thunder sit comfortably atop the Western Conference standings with eight more wins than second-place Memphis Grizzlies, who have played one more game.
Despite their dominant form, Oklahoma City has struggled on the road recently, losing two of their last four away games. They will need to bring their best effort to avoid another slip-up against a determined Timberwolves side.
Team News
Minnesota Timberwolves:
Donte DiVincenzo remains sidelined with a toe injury.
Veteran guard Mike Conley is doubtful after missing three consecutive games with a finger issue.
Julius Randle is still recovering from a groin injury and is expected to miss out.
Dutch center Jesse Edwards is also unavailable for this clash.
Oklahoma City Thunder:
Alex Caruso is a doubt after leaving the last game against Miami with left hip tightness.
Chet Holmgren is expected to return after being rested against the Heat.
Ousmane Dieng (calf) and Cason Wallace (shoulder) remain sidelined.
Nikola Topic is out for the season with a knee injury but is reportedly making progress in his recovery.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Minnesota Timberwolves:
Guards: Anthony Edwards, Nickeil Alexander-Walker
Forwards: Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid
Center: Rudy Gobert
Oklahoma City Thunder:
Guards: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Aaron Wiggins
Forwards: Luguentz Dort, Jalen Williams
Center: Isaiah Hartenstein
Prediction: Thunder to Win by 8+ Points
The Oklahoma City Thunder have been a dominant force this season and continue to showcase their championship credentials. Their ability to rally from significant deficits and control games in crucial moments makes them a dangerous opponent.
Minnesota’s struggles over the last few games, combined with key injuries, could make it difficult for them to keep up with the high-flying Thunder. While the Timberwolves will put up a fight at home, Oklahoma City’s depth and recent form give them the edge in this encounter.
Prediction: Thunder to win and extend their streak.
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