Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads Thunder to gritty victory
Oklahoma City faced a challenging battle on Wednesday night, but the Thunder emerged victorious against the Minnesota Timberwolves, securing a 113-105 win that extended their remarkable season start to 18-1. This victory not only marks their tenth consecutive win but also solidifies their position as the best team in the league, boasting the longest active winning streak.
Offensive Struggles Amidst Victory
Despite the outcome, it was a night filled with tension for the Thunder. As the two teams exchanged leads five times and were tied on seven occasions, the pressure mounted. Known for their dominance, especially with the best net rating in NBA history at the season’s outset, the Thunder found themselves pushed to the limit by a resilient Timberwolves squad.
Minnesota showcased impressive shooting from beyond the arc, hitting 17 three-pointers at a 45.9% clip, while the Thunder struggled significantly, making only seven of their 26 attempts for a dismal 26.9%. Yet, Oklahoma City found a way to win, capitalizing on their advantage in the paint by outscoring the Timberwolves 52-28. However, their struggles at the rim were evident, with a shooting percentage of just 63% on layups and close-range shots.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Shines Bright
In a night that saw uneven offensive contributions from his teammates, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stood out as the undeniable star. The reigning MVP delivered a stunning performance, netting 40 points while also contributing six rebounds and six assists, along with three steals on defense. Gilgeous-Alexander shot 63% from the field, hitting 1-of-2 from three-point range and converting 15 of his 17 free throw attempts, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Chet Holmgren’s Resilience
While Gilgeous-Alexander carried the bulk of the scoring load, Chet Holmgren’s late-game resurgence proved pivotal for the Thunder. The young big man had a slow start, scoring just two points in the first half and remaining scoreless through the third quarter. However, Holmgren found his rhythm in the fourth, contributing ten points, four rebounds, and an assist in the final frame.
His critical plays included a timely assist to Lu Dort, a key rebound off a missed free throw from Rudy Gobert, and a corner three-pointer that answered an Anthony Edwards triple. Holmgren’s ability to shake off a rocky performance and step up when it mattered most highlighted the team’s resilience and depth.
“I just feel like never be afraid of failure,” Holmgren reflected after the game. “If you miss a shot, you miss a shot. But you’re not gonna never shoot a shot again in your career. You’re gonna have to shoot a shot again at some point, so why not now?” His words embody the Thunder’s spirit as they continue to navigate the NBA Cup Pool Play undefeated.
With this victory, Oklahoma City remains a formidable force in the league, blending star power with emerging talent as they push forward in their quest for excellence.
