Thunder Ready to Spark Rivalry in Target Center Against Timberwolves
The Oklahoma City Thunder are geared up for an intense matchup in Minnesota, marking the second night of a back-to-back. After enjoying four days off leading into this stretch, the Thunder are coming off a decisive victory over the L.A. Clippers at home. With two days of respite following this quick trip, the Bricktown Ballers are eager to build on the momentum from their recent win.
This clash is not just another regular-season game; it’s a showdown between division rivals and last year’s Western Conference Finals contenders. In their first meeting this season back in November, the Thunder notched a victory at home as the Timberwolves struggled in the closing moments. Now, the stakes are higher as the Thunder take to the national stage at the Target Center, facing a Timberwolves squad that welcomes back star guard Anthony Edwards.
Thunder Injury Updates and Lineup Changes
In terms of personnel, the Thunder are set to see the return of Isaiah Hartenstein, who missed Thursday’s game due to injury management. His presence will be crucial as the team aims to solidify its starting rotation. However, the Thunder will be without key backup big man Jaylin Williams, who is sidelined for a second consecutive game with right heel bursitis. Additionally, top bench scorer Aaron Wiggins will also miss this matchup due to adductor soreness.
Notably, this game marks only the second time this season that the Thunder will deploy their traditional starting five. The last instance occurred in a playoff rematch against the San Antonio Spurs during the NBA Cup Semifinals in Las Vegas last Saturday. This lineup, which features players who took the floor together in last May’s playoff series against the Timberwolves, is poised to make an impact.
Projected Starting Lineups
Oklahoma City Thunder
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, G
Lu Dort, G
Jalen Williams, F
Chet Holmgren, F
Isaiah Hartenstein, C
Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards, G
Donte DiVincenzo, G
Jaden McDaniels, F
Julius Randle, F
Rudy Gobert, C
Looking Ahead
With an eye on extending their win streak, the Thunder are determined to return home with a 2-0 record from this back-to-back series. They will soon turn their attention to another set of consecutive games, starting Monday at the Paycom Center against the Memphis Grizzlies. Following that, they will hit the road again to face the Spurs on December 23, kicking off a unique series against the Victor Wembanyama-led Spurs, culminating on Christmas Day in a nationally televised matchup.
Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage of this game and the entire season as the Bricktown Ballers aim to make history and maintain their position at the top of the NBA standings.
