Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves NBA FULL GAME 23.02.2025

day continues Oklahoma City and Minnesota from Minneapolis downright bombing almost 50° today it was minus 18 earlier in the week the t-wolves trying to heat up but they’ve got a tough challenge in front of a sellout crowd they’re playing against the best team in the west and they’re playing short-handed but we have what a matchup of two of the most dynamic scores in the NBA including Shay gilders Alexander he is the leader of this great team Doris yeah this is a young hungry defensive-minded team but he is the Unstoppable driving force of that offense and they have the best record in the west meanwhile short-handed as Anthony Edwards in Minnesota no go no Randall no divon chenzo he’s going to have to have a special night he’s capable Mike those shoulders are broad his offensive game is diverse what I like the best is the balance between the jump shooting and the driving let’s take a look at the starting lineups and again Chad hren and Isaiah hartstein still kind of working out their Rhythm together this is only the fifth game they played each have had injuries during the course of the season but that’s the healthiest the Thunder event meanwhile look Jaylen Clark is getting the start it’s only his 16th game of the season and only his second start the rookie has opened some eyes a rookie from UCLA well the Timberwolves the game before the allstar break they were short-handed that night and they defeated Oklahoma City by 15 largest loss of the season for OKC so you just never know that was a second game of the back to- back for the thunder in the game right before the All-Star break Chad hongren launches his first shot and knocks it down so starting double big he obviously moves to the four because of that stretch ability that three-point shot he has got a diverse offensive game chat homri and a solid outside shooter 37% from three-point range connley toaz Reed re been in the starting lineup draws a foul course last year’s six had to start with all the injuries and that’s so key for Minnesota this a team trying to find that consistency Doris it’s hard to do it without three key players well Rudy goar with back spasms this is something that’s plagued him in the past Julius Randall and Dante dienzo according to Chris Finch getting a little bit closer but you’re in a back-to-back situation against a good team so you miss all three well Finch you ask him about Naas re he’ll talk all day and what a terrific player he is one of the most popular players amongst his teammates last nine games he started averaged just under 20 a game not only with his teammates this crowd adors n Reed alren double these are two of the better defensive teams in the league of course OKC is number one on defense hartstein double team back out hren shot clock down to five jayen Williams fresh off his All-Star appearance misses his first shot the timber wol at home just 16 and 13 they’ve already lost more home games than all of last year again injuries part of that Williams with the steel they’re number one in the league in steals Edwards comes right back and takes it away and here’s Clark the impressive rookie Edwards first jumper off the [Applause] mark ildis Alexander number one in the NBA at scoring slithers inside home back up top it’s a Relentless driving team the Oklahoma City Thunder comes from multiple spots but that’s how they generate some of their best offensive looks oh connley back playing missed a bunch of games prior to the all-star break connley nice move gets inside kicks it out wide open three comes all the way back out to McDaniels well they’ve taken three shots all three of them three-pointers Minnesota is one of the better three-point shooting teams in the league Edwards now they’re four for four on three-pointers in terms of what shots they’re taking but they’re only one for four in making them if there’s a signature shot for Anthony Edwards that’s it step back left from three he is Alexander Off the [Applause] Mark McDaniels finds some room short shot the paint is good that’s his comfort zone Mike and he has taken a step in the absence of the three starters you’ve mentioned he has taken a step offensively he had two clean looks at three the other night against Houston he’s got to make those [Applause] shots well welcome those who watch Cleveland with the victory tonight against the Memphis Grizzlies who played almost 3 minutes here in Minneapolis a thunder are leading the Timberwolves 5-4 they’re playing tonight they’re playing tomorrow night in OKC as Mike Connelly knocks it down so mismatch on the post Oklahoma City is a team that if the ball is near the paint I promise you they’re sending that extra Defender that’s why Conley gets a clean look they’re one and one against each other so far in the season series good defense from Kylie help force that turnover and Clark inside Jaylen Clark the impressive rookie from UCLA getting just his second start he’s played more G League games than NBA games this year but he is ready he’s on the floor because of this match up right here he gets the assignment of shake gilis Alexander and he’s called for a foul in now that’ll be his first so we are accustomed to Oklahoma City dominating the margins with turnovers created instead in this instance it’s Minnesota who gets the turnover nice play by Clark boy big body physically ready already that’s a nice powerful Drive Clark was a second round pick after three years of college ball and last year did not play Achilles rupture so missed his initial rookie season now is official rookie season and making up for it with with some strong play and as you mentioned that game right before the allstar break when Minnesota defeated OKC by 15 the job he did on Shay guildes Alexander early was so impressive that is correct he’s he’s got a big body he’s fast laterally and he understands schemes he’s willing to fight over screens look at this anticipation nice deflection and throws it ahead to Connelly back for Reed Reed throws it down first time out for OKC jayen Clark has them on their feet well sometimes you need a little juice in an NBA season and a young guy willing to play some defense get a turnover and Mr Reed finish [Applause] [Music] it Minnesota the Wolves leading by six early here in the first quarter Chad hungen for Oklahoma City is back his fifth game after dealing with a pelvic injury that sidelined him nearly 10 weeks when he was asked about what he was doing during the allstar break he stopped reporters and said I didn’t even deserve an allar star break considering I’ve missed so many games but he did talk about how he worked on his conditioning trying to get his win back and obviously working on his game him and hardenstein obviously trying to fix things as well on the floor as they’re trying to fast trck this a little bit before we get to the postseason when I spoke to head coach Mark dagel guys he said he’s a psycho in the greatest way possible he wants to work all the time he says he sleeps with his shoes on his sneakers are on that’s how much he loves basketball Mike you know George it’s amazing this team with this historical start hr’s missed 41 games hartenstein missed 20 Caruso’s missed 21 and they’re still 45 and 10 and hram has a chance to be one of the special players in the league he’s got that range knocks down another that’s his second three-pointer he already has eight points you have to guard the three Mike but he’s added a dimension off the bouns that makes him more dangerous I imagine he makx a couple of those they’re going to close and we’ll see that so the basketball psycho off to a good start Connelly lines up his three-pointer rebound gild is Alexander H for a guy his sized the skill level phenomenal he likes I’m sure playing here he’s from Minneapolis was a great high school player hren lays it up and in and a hardstein beautiful pass you’re playing double big against a Minnesota team that essentially has n re at the five Anthony Edward gets inside Dort knocks it away Edwards thr he got hit Dort lines up three-pointer and NZ Reed tracks it [Applause] down Reed against Williams that’s a fun match up there and Edwards and Kil is Alexander Edwards had 37 the other night and a loss to Houston but struggled down the stretch he’s looking to turn it around here early that’s his second field goal I mean the game is Just Pure that that little mid-range turnar [Applause] around gilders Alexander off the glass can’t get it to go ball knocked out of bounds last Touch by Minnesota now tonight’s star match up brought to you by Crown Royal and two of the most dynamic scorers in the game one’s first in the NBA score and the other’s fourth Edwards AAG and we showed it before over 37 a game in the month of February both these guys are ungard one-onone they have a counter for everything athletically they have size I mean there’s really no holes in either’s offensive game both go to the free throw line a ton Mike and a beautiful move there from dildis Alexander draw the foul chance for a three-point play the Thunder back up by one a little bit of a slow start for Shay he had a couple early turnovers this time just a simple inbounds gets the defender on his hit and Jaylen Clark just p picked up his second so Alexander Walker will check in we feel Alexander Walker has turned himself into a superb defensive player and Clark will sit down after getting the crowd on its feet picks up two quick fouls ah Life as a rookie in the NBA learning from night toight they like what they got in that kid though you know what I like Mike he’s Fearless you know you you have to have a c mental stamina to play against the best players in the NBA on the defensive end they’re going to score Edwards kicks it out McDaniels short shot gets his own rebound back out Edwards Edwards clean look for three he’s number one in the NBA and three-pointers made and attempted ildis Alexander drives it Conelly Baseline jumper got it that that forearm you look at his frame you don’t think he’s very strong Shay watch him get separation with that forearm Alex Caruso’s in the game as well now for OKC NZ Reed’s three-pointer misses McDaniels has it poked away McDaniel spins gets in the paint and scores this is what I’m talking about Mike he’s he’s elevated his offensive game in February in particular he’s had a very productive offensive stretch beautiful feed inside G’s Alexander gorgeous pass Caruso finishes OKC excellent Road team 19- seven on the road and they lead the west by eight and a half games Edwards misses they’re not just been good they’ve been dominant I mean think about that we keep talking about how tough the West is and yet they have made it look easy and K Alexander makes it look easy as Mike connley took a shot while committing the foul double whammy for the veteran this is what he does he can get to the spot on the floor that he wants he’s going to dictate the pace they made the switch right he got a couple of fouls early this time it’s Conley’s turn same result gilis Alexander as we said he leads the NBA in scoring despite the fact that he has sat out the entire fourth quarter 14 times that’s incredible 50 straight games with at least 20 and and unflappable demeanor you you can’t tell if things are going well or poorly for him Shannon n of the young players getting some extra time running shot won’t go Minnesota wanted a foul Baron Shannon getting play with some of the injuries McDaniels as hren gets away from him Wiggins sneaks inside and draws a foul OKC plays a lot of players every night they all come in they all defend most of them can shoot threes it’s just wave after wave and Wiggins has been a really big part of their success he’s averaging just under 11 a game had a career-high 41 points earlier this month also had a 28-point game and a 26-point game time for tonight’s national team schedule brought to you by ESPN bet tomorrow night NBA TV we’ll go at it again this time in Oklahoma City the Thunder and the wolves and then double header on TNT Tuesday from Orlando and [Applause] [Music] La eight point Thunder Lee there’s no question they’ve got a little revenge on their minds after losing by 15 Edwards misses that Edwards 0 for four from three just one six overall Caruso racing up the [Applause] floor McDaniel guarding gildas alexand McDaniel can guard one through five shot clock at four hild Alexander sneaks inside what a shot off the glass that’s ridiculous Jaden McDaniels when I tell you is Elite not only skill-wise but with his physical attributes he’s long he can get down the stance somehow Shay gild just Al Alexander finishes unbelievable the NBA on ESPN is presented all season long by state welcome back NBA Sunday presented by State Farm watch Chad hren do a little work he’s going to get off the ball and eventually get a back because Isaiah herstein is going to hit him with a big to Big pass nicely done you on the inbounds ball thrown away was it deflected by Caruso officials looking at each other Minnesota saying yes they’re going to confer Zach Zara Jason Goble Michael Smith the officials tonight doesn’t look like anybody has it Mike jump indeed well Caruso has the ball in his hands and he’s not vly disagreeing so my take is he may have deflected that and he’s thrilled for the jump ball as the crowd reacts to it that’s hysterical always tell the player Who’s involved in it it it’s hard to tell I think it did deflect it Rob Dillingham in the game for the first time from Minnesota chis Finch playing a lot of young guys with the injuries McDaniels poked Away by Caruso look at the swarming defense Edwards lines up that three just can’t get it the fall early on race for the ball Caruso inside Lou Dort on the f finish and OKC up by 12 after trailing by six so an 18-point turnaround Shannon drives to the basket the other rookie from Illinois Caruso throws that one away fourth turnover for OKC ason Wallace checks in L Dort sits down those Defenders though keep coming to your point Mike because KAS Wallace 179 deflections Off the Bench he’s Fifth and of the five best defenders in terms of opponent’s field goal percentage the Oklahoma City have four of the best individual Defenders incredible great individual Defenders a superb team defense Alexander Walker comes up short Caruso after it Caruso there’s just starting to understand his huge impact that he’s had what a great defensive player he is and had to deal with some injuries this year McDaniels blocks the shot but a foul will they challenge Chris Finch immediately looks behind the bench that’s what coaches do these days I think the question is does he get the ball first and then does the contact after become incidental we’re going to get a look at it hard to tell on that [Music] one ah it feels like a too much risk I mean look at the trajectory of the ball yeah that’s a foul D Alexander one of the things he does so well is shoot free throws clearly got him on the arm there just under [Applause] 90% but this guy to me Mike SGA there’s a maturity Beyond his years he’s been in the driver seat for this team for five straight years teams have thrown every kind of imaginable defense at him I just love his temperament and his demeanor it’s now his it’s it’s hard to believe this is his seventh year now in the league obviously six with OKC that first year with the Clippers ball deflected Edwards gets it back Henrik Williams guarding him floater in the paint won’t go Garza gets the rebound and it’s mul and the big sarcastic chair for the Minnesota fans as the whistle went their way this is the challenge right because the two bigs are off the floor they go to this downsize lineup because inevitably in the playoffs you’re going to need it but what does that make you susceptible theone big for Minnesota’s Garza he gets to the offensive window who is the player in the NBA as Garza will shoot to when the the Luca donic trade came out and he said to the player hey did you hear Luca got traded and the answer was Luca Garza because no nobody would believe there was Luka donic well Garza’s getting some time fourth year in the NBA our Stu guy Dave fre we had just left the guarden he texted me and he’s like it’s a screenshot of the trade and I said somebody hacked Shams right that was the the prevalent thought from everybody around the league 10-point lead for OKC and a moving screen Builders Alexan here picks up his first with a minute and a half to go [Music] [Applause] so Rudy goar missing his third consecutive with back spasms Julius Randle his 10th consecutive with a grin injury and Dante D venzo is 18 straight with a toe injury an opportunity for others as Alexander Walker rattles that one in for his second fi [Applause] goal you’ll see a lot of double teams Williams nice footwork down low and the veteran Williams able to put it in you see Minnesota they want to trap SGA make somebody else make plays I love the patience in the middle of the floor by Williams henred Williams as Dillingham throws it away Caruso with the steel ball knocked loose still on the ground everybody diving for [Applause] it Henri Williams comes up with it still T to shoot for OKC does does it feel like when you play Oklahoma City the ball is never safe that there’s hands and bodies and arms flying at you from every direction there’s no question and sometimes I think if you’re the opponent it feels like they have six players on the defensive end yes Williams kicks it out Wallace Nails the three-pointer that’s their third three-pointer they’re shooting 72% from the field we talked so much about this great defense they’re pretty good offense team as well number five in the league in offensive rating Garza battling gets another rebound Shannon inside lays it up and in and again it’s it’s really about being downsized no harste no jet paron Shannon who Chris Finch calls a wrecking ball on offense plays with such a force shot clock turned off Caruso ball knocked loose good close out Higgins gets it off and a whistle and a foul is called Chris fin can’t believe it they’ll check to see if it occurred before the buzzer Jason Goble called it it would hard to hear the whistle cuz the buzzer sounded at the same time and they’re going to go take a look ring on the floor is a defensive foul the play is under review to see if it comes before the end of the game plan well the foul clearly had to have happened before the buzzer doesn’t matter when he Blows the Whistle do matter when the foul is called didn’t look like there was much there though I don’t blame him for being upset Mike so that’s Zach Zin number 15 on the right J Jason go number 68 and then the veteran Michael Smith in his 32nd season Chris Finch and Pion this might be a better look of it I he’s got him on the right hip a little bit but I mean does that feel like the definition of marginal well let’s watch Edwards cuz that’s what they called it on Edwards there’s contact there but it’s it’s contact below the hip so we are taking a long look at it if they want to change it I think the verbiage would be marginal right correct Zach Zar on camera after the illegal contact by Edwards took place with 1.1 on the game clock personal foul on Edwards is upheld 1.1 on the game clock two free throws for wiggin yeah there was there’s certainly contact there on a shot attempt even though it’s the final seconds or t of a seconds Edwards picks up his second foul yeah grabbing the grabbing the shorts there as well so two free throws for Wiggins excellent start for OKC 72% from the field and their defense usual swarming [Applause] D CR a little ornery right now I feel the whistle has not been Fair shop NB store.com now for the best selection of NBA gear choose from jerseys t-shirts hats and more NBA store.com Fanatics experience there’s 1.1 left so time if he hits this from Minnesota to throw it down and get off a decent shot Gars is not going to do it off the Miss and that will end the first the Thunder looking for a little Revenge last time they played it was their worst loss of the Season kilers Alexander with 11 HR with 10 they hit 13 of 18 from the field well the guy who’s the leading candidate for MVP right now continues to pile up the points but he’s got a sidekick coming back and this guy is a spacer from three [Music] pure this brought to you by T-Mobile we’re here with Chad hren fifth game back for you 10 points in that first quarter in front of your hometown fans with OKC now what was that first quarter like for you uh it’s good just to get out there uh you know find a rhythm early and uh you know try and establish ourselves early in the game uh you know you don’t want to have to throw to Second punch you want to throw the first punch so uh you know we came out aggressive and uh so far it’s gone in our favor we got to keep it going well you guys were trailing 11 to six and then that first timeout happen you’ve gone on a 30 to 12 run what has worked best for you guys moving forward there hanging our hat on the defensive end and then uh you know playing together on offense uh letting the ball move let the ball have energy uh and you know kind of let the ball movement open things up for us Jack good luck thank you for the time yeah thank you very much all right mikee back to you all right George Teran Shannon another bucket he’s three for four already now Shannon was the 27th pick in the draft after 5 years at College played three at Texas Tech the last two at Illinois last year they went to the Elite 8 was third in the country in scoring 23 a game he’s just he plays with that force and he has one of those players that have benefited from the injuries that’s going to strengthen the depth of Minnesota in a long term think about Chris fch thought coming in he could play a 10-man rotation didn’t play that way when he was trying to get Julius and Dante sort of integrated but it’ll be interesting when those guys come back how how deep they are Bon Wallace chases after the long rebound falls down cone on him fires the pass to Joe inside hartenstein Mike you know he Chad just touched on this they had nine assists in that first quarter there’s another one they coming off a game where they had 38 assists like they love each other and they they love sharing the ball Alexander Walker nice pass connley connley back inside good ball movement Shannon again attacks shot blocked what a block from Wiggins hardstein the other way Jaylen Williams back in spins into the paint uses hardenstein as a shield how good are both plays Mike the defensive willingness to step in and make that play at The Rim Jaylen Williams with another steel Williams down the other end and throws it down they’re now 16 of 22 from the field they’ve only taken seven threes out of 22 field goal attempts they do not stop on the defensive end the guys as you said they just keep coming off the bench and each guy comes with Force Nas Reed draws the foul Jaylen Williams picks up his first let’s just watch Oklahoma City do what they have done all year this has been by far the best defensive team in the league all season long a lot of its turnovers their ability to pressure the basketball outstanding point of attack Defenders they swarm when the ball touches the paint and they wear you wear you down look at this first and defensive rating in opponent’s points opponent’s field goal percentage three-point percentage turnover paint they’re also number one in loose balls recovered number one in deflections number one in charges drawn if it’s it’s something needed defensively they take care of it and there’s no weak link there’s not really a player out there that you can Target and if you’re not a great defensive player you’re going to you’re so motivated to make sure you’re not that weak length right there’s a little competitive Pride on the line if you’re the guy being attacked it really is an historic defense feed inside hartstein loves that floater rattles in and out Nas Reed with a rebound [Music] [Applause] they make you as an offense play it kind of a frantic Pace McDaniels can’t hit the three they’re one for 10 from three-point range this is one of the best three point shooting teams in a league percentage wise but have missed nine of 10 tonight Isaiah Joe cuts to the basket Reed defends him well wow that’s that’s something nazri did not do early in his career Wallace has to put it up shot clock expiring fight for the rebound good job from Alexander Walker ahead to Shannon falls down gets it back kicks it out Connelly [Applause] three-pointer Isaiah Joe good transition defense have to have that against the Thunder three-pointer SC though as Wiggins Nails it tell you what that Defender got a a great close Andrew Wiggins is a pure shooter that was pretty and they’re up a 16-point lead largest here of the first half AZ re another Miss three from Minnesota one for 12 Williams back out Isaiah Joe his three-pointer got it and the t- need a timeout Oklahoma City they do this so many nights all of a sudden they’ve got a huge lead shooting 69% from the field and including five of 10 from three okcs all year long it’s been Oklahoma City’s defense ruling the court that play at The Rim is impressive that’s a wrecking ball coming downhill then the steals by Jaylen Williams ball pressure out front as Mark dagno likes to say we want teams to play in a crowd we want to be uncomfortable to play against we’re going to commit bodies to the ball and make you beat us with multiple actions that’s a hard way to play Mike you got to be able to go to the second and third options and just like that it’s a 19point lead this is what they’ve been doing to teams all season long Reed up top Alexander Walker just good ball movement here but still the rotations are right with every play and they finally at three-point avoid if Minnesota need that they were one for 12 from three and Alexander Walker able to knock that down hardstein kicks it out Isaiah Joe looks to get it back and does Isaiah Joe all 10 guys that have played for this team have scored Isaiah Joe is what your eighth or ninth guy in the rotation and he looks Sensational averages just under 10 per game and Off the Bench six points already Garza looking Nas Reed guarded by Jaylen Williams two tough competitors there Reed misses that guards the fou got it to go ours have been working hard on the boards so one thing they’ve done well Mike is is hit the offensive window great college player at Iowa as Jaylen Williams gets inside gets knocked down and he’ll shoot free throws one of the terrific stories this year of making that All-Star team everybody was saying it it was just the matter of when and it’s so deserving complete Game you’d have to say complete Game can check across the board on the defensive end it’s been times he’s had to check the fiveman can stand up to that physically has grown his offensive Game and his numbers are impressive averaging almost 21 a game five and a half boards just over five assists almost two steals but his numbers don’t fully reflect his impact on winning night in and night out seems to make those momentum changing type plays and I I think the thing I like about him is same thing with SGA they’re serious about the game at such a young age serious about the craft about the things that go into it n re gets inside shot blocked arenstein though commits the foul Reed will shoot two he wolves down 19 with almost five minutes gone by here in the second first was talking about how much much he likes him but when he first came to Minnesota Finch said he kept calling him NZ instead a Nas and he said Reed did not like that but they have developed a great relationship again Sixth Man of the Year last season as Edwards comes back in So now is read to me Mike you you have an interesting situation this guy has now look at this productivity as a starter he’s done nothing to deserve to be taken out of the starting lineup but Julius Randall is going to expect to come back into that starting lineup well it’s a good good problem to have read to those he’s one of those players whatever you need coach I’ll come off the bench I’ll start little zone defense here from Minnesota Jaylen Williams can’t get it McDaniels [Music] [Applause] can Edwards guarded by Isaiah Joe spins trying to get something connley McDaniels can’t get it a lot of work there for a contested shot that’s exactly right great rotation poor pass here by Wallace Edwards goes right at hartstein and Banks it home that’s just Edwards second field goal he was one for seven crowd trying to urge their team on Joe goes back door HS inside shot won’t go read the rebound Here Comes connley chance to build some momentum here Mike get a score and a stop change how this game feels Edwards and he grabs his right leg as he collided with Wallace anybody holding their breath right now here in the Target Center kind of an awkward awkward landing and comes up limping a little bit trying to shake it off he’s so athletic the speed to get the corner turned and the physicality if need be but it’s down low you can see that that ankle turns hard oh yeah yeah that’s what it is and no shot attempts so side out Wallace picks up his second J clar jayen Clark comes back in Garza sits down Garza Four Points four rebounds five minutes off the bench Clark the rookie who got the start well picked up two quick fouls L Dort Chad homr back in with guildas Alexander Wallace and Joe n Reed able to hit the three his first three-pointer 11 points for Reed they’ve cut it through a dozen [Applause] [Music] [Applause] well this is fun to watch this rookie who’s such a good Defender against the leading score in the NBA double clutch made him take a tough shot and conly the rebound this is why he’s playing Mike he did this in the first match up against him he looks ready for the [Applause] challenge Edwards goes hard at Joe triple team pass deflected Finds Its way to re misses the layup gets it back again blocked by hre fight the rebound knocked out of bounds and it’ll go the other way Thunderball boy those defensive rebounds can feel like uh everyone produces some anxiety for Oklahoma City long run a great shot blocker because he’s only played a small amount of games not amongst the elite leaders he’d be number two this is only his 15th game of the season GIS Alexander gets inside creates a little contact and knocks it down that right shoulder and that right forearm of Shay Gil just Alexander that should be considered a Lethal Weapon he’s got 13 points to lead all scores Reed fakes a pass kicks it out McDaniels open Corner three is good McDaniels his first three-pointer they were one for 12 but they’ve hit their last three and the lead cut to 11 a 19-point lead getting a little smaller Sunday presented by State Farm T Wills trying to come back Nas Reed all over this right now he’s got 11 points he’s making plays off the bouns this was the last bucket by McDaniels Corner three was wide open cuz he touched the paint how about this play by Mr Clark I mean get down in a stance have to handle the spin and then make SGA double clutch and you have to have mental stamina meaning Shay’s going to score like he’s two for four against the guy but just try to make every single shot tough there’s the Run Wallace will bring it up Clark McDaniels Naas Reed Edwards and Alexander Walker out there right now for the t-wolves hren shut off good open look K Wallace can’t get that to go Reed battling and grabs another [Music] rebound L Dort is guarding Alex Walker Gort one of the elite defensive players in the game McDaniels drives can’t get it Clark with a tip and with a left hand what an athletic play eight offensive rebounds from Minnesota boy Clark and Shannon they they got something to them noris I mean they’re both athletic live bodies hungry to play Russo the air ball much to the Delight of the Minnesota crowd Edwards dribble it off a foot a a little side out that off his own foot there let’s watch mcdel there’s the tip right over the top of [Music] Shay seven on the 24 Reed goes down the lane lots of contact home right there though McDaniels is fouled is still down now bounces up he thought he got hit I think he had a legitimate complaint there but the defensive rebounding has been a consistent problem for Oklahoma City the last couple years it’s been a problem here in the first half as well it’s hard to find a weakness yeah but that’s one thing that they could get better at and I would say the when when hartenstein is on the floor their defensive rebound bounding percentage is much higher and they’ played together the two bigs Chet and Isaiah that now they’re being staggered here and I think that in part because of the way Minnesota’s playing McDaniels another free throw 8.6 rebounds hartenstein now on the bench McDaniel’s last five games he’s had a 30-point game and 22 onepoint games to go to your point on how he’s becoming a more complete player dors yeah I mean late game without those Stars he’s got to make shots cuz they need him as that option Caruso fakes nice feed inside homr can’t get it to go knocked out of his hands by Edwards T wolves on a 14-2 run right back in [Music] it Edwards dribble it off D’s foot that’s going to go in the back court and still Minnesota ball they still have 11 to [Applause] shoot you do you do finally feel like Minnesota’s defense we’ve talked so much about Oklahoma City they’re looking opposite a pretty good defensive team and it’s started to get its teeth into the basketball game well they’re the sixth rated defensive team in the NBA they’re just not as good as last year when they were number one Reed banks at home Nas Reed now 13.7 rebounds and it’s a five-point game a 16-2 run after that huge run from OKC early ear Jaylen Williams can’t get it Edwards with the rebound Edwards the adrenaline is Flowing fires up a three knocks it in Anthony Edwards from downtown it’s a two-point game and a 19-2 run Nas Reed has been all over this but you start letting Anthony Edwards dance with the ball might be a long night this guy Elite from [Applause] three team in the NBA in three-point percentage started one for 12 Trail by 19 but they have turned it around Nas Reed a big part of it but so are the threes they’ve hit their last four making shots for sure Mike but they’ve settled in on the defense and starting to make life a little bit tougher for Oklahoma City KS this Alexander now McDaniels picks him up jayen Williams goes hard to the glass blocked by Reed here comes Edwards peruso guarding him been a lot of really good defensive plays here in this game Edwards won’t go but a foul and a chance to tie it at the free throw line now now Reed when he first started here on the defens end he was always polished offensively and could fill a lot of roles the defense was where he struggled gets that block there’s a play earlier where he’s matched up against a guard in space in the corner got down in The Stance and forced a pass like his growth on the defensive end NZ you have to respect Chris Finch was telling us prior to the the game every year they they came back but I don’t know if this guy’s going to play not sure where he fits he can only guard the five he can’t guard the four and every year Nas Reed works his way into some kind of role that elevates this group he’s only 25 wasn’t drafted one year at LSU and boys he become an impact player game all tied after Minnesota Trail by 19 a 21-2 run and a foul it’s going to go against Alexander Walker side out at the half time coming up presented by Hyundai a thunderous statement but I tell you what the Timberwolves with a Big Growl here in the second quarter sloppy pass s turnover he’s got a lot SGA opened the game with a couple of turnovers this team is usually so solid with the ball that’s his fourth turnover but you make a great Point doors were raving about the thunder defense and rightfully so the Timberwolves defense have really helped turn it around Edwards goes inside hard to the glass and a whistle and a foul and they’re getting to the free throw line where they’re 13 of 13 and this this to me is the biggest difference do you remember at the start of the Year Anthony Edwards was far in way taking so many threes and not getting to the free throw line when you are this athletic with this speed and this electric ability you have got to balance those two skills and over the last month he has done a much better job of that he’s had 40 points plus in three of the last six games right now after a slow start he’s got nine and Minnesota after trailing by 19 takes a onepoint lead with just over a minute and a half to play in the second what a turnaround both teams have had long impressive runs here in the first half gilis Alexander can’t get it hardstein the rebound finds William cut slays good beautiful moving without the ball I feel like this team functions better on both ends when Haren Stein’s on the floor three assists for hartenstein who’s averaging four a game Dort and Edwards Edwards can’t get the three Alexander Walker out the re knocks down the three Nas Reed lighting it up here the second and the two’s up by two alexand and Walker drills it he’s got 15 final minute and what has been a wild first half and they’ll play it again tomorrow night no KC Clark for three a rookie three for three from the field and some great defense in his second NBA start ERS Alexander get it re the rebound he went quick two for one Shay in that instance got a pretty good look at it a 22-point turnaround here in the second as Minnesota now with a three-point lead Edwards pulls up three-pointer homr the rebound shot clock turned off no fouls to give stolen by Clark Clark to the basket layup he BS it in the rookie is rolling right now final seconds Williams looking Hees it up in a half court oh it goes inad Jayla Williams at the [Music] buzzer what a fantastic finish to the second quarter back and forth they go and Minnesota will have a two-point lead at halftime ring on the Flo is a good three-point goal the play is under R this istic finish smokes I mean first of all the pressure to start that and then this is at the [Music] end Timber wol with a 40o second quarter and the fans celebrating and Jan Williams quiets him down at least for a for a moment so OKC up by 19 early and now two quarters complete here in Minneapolis it’s the t-wolves 63 and the Thunder 61 Minneapolis it’s the t-wolves with a 6361 lead our first half stats brought to by Ford OKC went up by 19 we’re pounding Minnesota but look at the last 7 minutes plus 30 to9 they came alive from three their defense turned it around and we’ve got a two-point game as we get set to start start the third quarter hi one with North B Mike GRE on and we’ll check in with George Sano in a moment well that was entertaining yes so much fun the pace was incredible it was a 40p point second quarter dominated by Minnesota but the action in the final minute was extraordinary Nas Reeds handprints were all over the comeback how about the tough Baseline Jumper by Shay I mean this was one after the other they have found something in the rookie Clark that three followed by yet another Force turnover into a tough bucket let’s hope the second half is this fun this ends it with Jaylen Williams pulling them back into the basketball game after they relinquished a 19-point lead that was special basketball now we’ll start the third let’s check in with George Mike I spoke to Mark dagnal the head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder about the first half and he said that defensively that they were getting pushed around a little bit that he was kind of surprised by that particularly late in that first half he said offensively they need to be more decisive and more aggressive particularly as Minnesota tries to junk things up between their man and Zone defenses Mike all right George thank you that’s the other part of this matchup you have two just terrific coaches de do was the coach of the year last year Chris Finch is so highly respected throughout the league it’s re picks up the loose ball lays it and Drew the foul do Reed having another big scoring game and that’s their 11th offensive rebound leading to a 177 advantage in Second Chance points and again as one weakness in Oklahoma City it’s this their inability to defensive rebound at a high percentage Reed now with 19 points eight rebounds and we’re 30 seconds into the third quarter Dort hartstein Zing about playing with a force but Mike you you called the championship of the Vegas tournament the NBA cup Milwaukee had its way physically with Oklahoma City to Georgia’s point that Mark dagno told them like let’s see their physical response here as connley gets another three to go oh Conley starting to play well if you ask Chris Finch Mike Kylie is one of the real keys to their success especially because they’ve struggled late game execution that’s where he excels as goes as Alexander excels in the mid-range 17 for SGA George guarding Edwards Edwards had a slow start he’s still just three of 11 Clark throws it up and Jaylen Clark 11 points in 13 minutes he has a missed a shot Clark getting the start in just his 6 16th game in the NBA as hren knocks down another three he’s three for three from long distance [Music] McDaniels well defended by hartstein Reed tied up shot clock at six McDaniels three-pointer that won’t go excellent individual defense by Jaylen Williams on NAS Reed they’ve got to get him under control and I would expect Williams to have a hand in that gas Alex and it gets the spin wow another beautiful shot from the NBA’s leading score who’s got 19 Edwards he”s been seeing double teams all season long three down low surrounded by seven Footers flips it up shot won’t go hardstein is sixth [Applause] rebound little crossover little pullup jump shot won’t go McDaniels throws it ahead conly in the corner Clark Tak the bounce takes a look knocks down the shot the rookie is 6 for six with 14 points just incredible Mike in such limited time looks so confident and comfortable hardstein his floaters up and good Clark by the way comes in averaging four and a half points per game it’s amazing sometimes what an injury can do for another player’s career granted it’s just a a short sample size but this kid’s got something foul call on hren two on [Applause] hren and McDaniels took a shot nobody agrees with the call except hren all of his teammates don’t agree the thing is he had such a great challenge you know if he could have side stepped after he got the good contest first free throw good next to ESPN NBA Wednesday double header the Sixers and the Knicks at Madison Square Garden and then it’s the Spurs going up against the Rockets NBA Countdown tips off par coverage at 6:30 Eastern free throw shooting 17 of 18 from Minnesota [Music] five-point lead for the t- Dort Jaylen Williams lines that one up hren nice tip [Applause] in he’s got 14 coming off a 20-point game in their last game which is the most he’s had since he’s return from the injury this Alexander good contest of the shot not good enough Edwards Nails his second three-pointer Mike he he loves dancing with the ball at the top he’s going to get to that step back going to his left pass inside Dort and a foul called on the entry pass Edwards is called for the personal that’s his third so we talk about balance with Anthony Edwards He’s as you said leading the league in three’s made and attempted and he’s such a prolific driver because of that body and explosive get by ability but that’s tough to defend right there well that’s the biggest area of improvement for him this year shooting more threes and being more efficient from that range kill is Alexander block but a foul NZ Reed was right there and he wants a challenge that’s going to be his first foul unless they Challenge and overturn it he he’s getting another look at the board and he’s saying yeah let’s challenge this [Applause] coach I I don’t challenge that what is he thinking yeah no no no sometimes I think it’s just the adrenaline of of a play as ills Alexander hits the free throw now another 20-point game so his streak continues it’s now 51 consecutive games with 20 or more the all-time leader Will Chamberlain with 126 consecutive games of 20 more second place wi Chamberlain with 92 so he had two streaks are both of those probably Untouchable Alexander Walker now at 21 four-point game Edwards Sid step can’t get it the fall hin fumbled it bit the Thunder hold on hardstein Alli up to hren and a technical foul called on Edwards and that’s going to be his 14 Tech te of the Season he leads the NBA we got a long ways to go in the season and if you get your 16th you’re suspended a game and every second one after that so the 18th you get suspended the 20th now wipes out come playoff time but this is a team battling for position they can’t afford to have him miss a game because he exceeded the technical limit and you see The Savvy veteran connley pull him away Jason Goble showed great strength cuz he clapped in his face after the first technical see I think he’s upset at the non call down the other end this is hen’s finish it’s it’s away from that where the the conversation happened meanwhile hartstein with another great pass a big man with four assists one-point game [Applause] now zone defense here from OKC Clark to Edward shot clock at four side step tied up in the corner heads to three with a seven-footer right on him that is absolutely ridiculous 16 points for Edwards Minnesota back up by four there’s been some in the first quarter as arenstein fakes there was some great defensive plays now we’re seeing some terrific shot making as arin’s called for a moving screen that’s his third foul and we’ll take a timeout let’s watch Anthony Edwards in the corner CU you might as well have an extra Defender you’re buried so deep and I don’t know you only have Isaiah hartstein in front of you you got to use a step back move over the outstretched arms come on stop [Music] it so this is the play that got Anthony Edwards upset he felt like there was enough contact that he should have taken some free throws Jason Goble lets him react there it continues on he got a technical and then after he got the technical he sort of claps great restraint by Jason to just keep walking the first restraint to would have punished Oklahoma City on a fast break the second one I mean it’s it’s it’s clearly that he’s given them little rope right there which is tremendous officiating Mike but to your point about Anthony he has called his own self out for some immaturity this year and it’s a about recognizing your value to what you’re trying to get done here you’re down three guys you need him dork good defense re for to shoot Clark stolen by Williams Clark takes it right back from Williams jayen Clark goes at hardenstein oh wow he hit the back of his head hard he’s down Clark Shake It Up a three-pointer SC from Edwards they need to commit a foul Minnesota commits the foul stopped the clock and now they can come out on the floor when he fell down his head snapped back and the back of his head hit the court this young man has played brilliantly in it just his second NBA start just going 100% playing so hard and that was a difficult fall so we’ll take a timeout and check on Jaylen Clark Minnesota rookie Jaylen Clark went back to the locker room walked out on his own after this hard fall watch the back of his head snaps and hits the court he was down for several minutes and they helped him up and able to walk back but clearly shaken up as this young man back in the lock room now we get an update will cly your know they’re going to miss his presence Mike you have felt that young man all night long 14 points four steals but the level of physicality and intention that he has played with defensively has helped this group get the start with Julius Randall out Rudy goar out D Devan chenzo out hartstein sneaks it into Caruso who has to give it right back beautiful pass Dort with the slam what a great pass from hardstein great pass Mike Minnesota’s done a great job mixing their defenses tonight and even matching up out of the zone you’ve got to stay active so Conley gets back cut Dort is a tremendous athlete Big Time finish arenstein eight points six rebounds five assists but it’s Minnesota still with a five-point lead Alexander Walker back in with connley Edwards McDaniels and Nas Reed Edwards inside Caruso defends it well and a nice soft touch from McDaniels who’s got 13 points and this now the largest lead of the game from Minnesota remember they Trail by 19 in the first half hartenstein tied up Caruso Corner three hardstein another rebound gilders Alexander connects surprised hartenstein on that offensive rebound didn’t go back up it looked like Conley was the guy in front of him yeah he does that all the time though I think he’s one of those strange people that likes to give an assist rather than score good defense there Reed couldn’t hold on D the [Applause] [Music] rebound under five to play here in the third gilis Alexander sneaks in kicks it out Caruso this time the left corner and Nas Reed grabs his 10th rebound a double double 19 and 10 for Nas Reed a starting center tonight from Minnesota off the to steal a foul on connley is that a transition take foul that’s what Mark dull wants they’re going to discuss it well upcoming National TV schedule tomorrow night NBA TV these two teams will go at it again in Oklahoma City then double header on TNT Tuesday night Cavs and Magic Mavericks and the Lakers which will be an interesting backup to say the least some interested parties for sure I’m anxious to see Mike I want to go back to something you said earlier today uh you talked about it being in a uh positive dilemma for Chris Finch that NZ Reed is playing so well as a starting role you tell NZ Reed you got to go to the bench cuz Julius is back as well as he’s playing n Reed is a very culturable player turnover number 11 for OKC there Reed just having a tremendous game it just love to see those stories of undrafted players who blossom into an impact player on a one of the better [Applause] teams Edwards Caris with the ball Dort Wiggins hits the three first Wiggins does it on defense runs to a spot knocks down the three that’s exactly right and Shay doesn’t need to pound the basketball he gets it to the middle of the floor cuz it’s three onone Edwards that three won’t go Caruso goes high for the rebound he is Alexander to hartstein inside beautiful connection between those two eight straight points down the Thunder back up by one McDaniels lays it up and a that was an easy one tell you what he’s got a lot to his game and it’s not always been required or asked of him to be an off defensive Force but in February he has been just that he’s on the best offensive stretch of his career as Wiggins hits a three Wiggins is three for three from downtown 12 points in 12 minutes it’s like Vinnie Johnson one of the great nicknames in NBA history Vinnie Johnson a champion with the Pistons known as the microwave for those of the younger generation you talk about a just like a built like a fire hyp oh so tough strong same frame as L Dort very similar y two-point Thunder lead three minutes of play in the third hren scool playoff can’t get it and dorton hren collided there he’s upset he thought he got grabbed at The Rim that off the bounce game I talked about though that balance to his three-point game oh hard screen set by Garza and Garza wants a challenge Dort went down hard this is Chris Finch not even looking on that particular play now it’s a possib to tell from that angle if he was moving I’m glad you took that one well you know I have not been very successful on my personal challenges [Applause] bu this Alexander lines it up can’t get it the fall McDaniels gets a running start Garza trying to post up SGA down low double team lost it out of bounds and still Minnesota ball 15 on the shot clock great recovery by Shay’s teammates he was buried by Garza you know Minnesota they’ve been maddingly maddeningly inconsistent all season team that went to the Conference Finals but it’s performances like this that they can still be a real Factor especially when they get healthy as Edwards draws the foul oh heck yeah I mean I think the thing that was most notable to me going into before Julius got hurt was Julius saying all right I’m not taking 16 17 shots I’m going to take 12 shots I’m going to make sure I’m spraying the ball when I get turned I mean they’re missing three starters basically cuz divon chenzo was put into the starting lineup Randall and Gober there just shows you the depth they have and now with some of these younger players like Clark and Shannon a reminder next week NBA Saturday Prime Time game on ABC and ESPN Seth Curry and the Warriors be out east in Philadelphia whether or not Joel and beid plays we do not know coverage tips with an NBA Countdown at 8 Eastern do you think they ever cross a a point where they say let’s get the surgery now for Joel well chams of course saying that that’s going to be discussed this week and they going to count the basket or a foul before nope be side [Applause] out of course Talent is number one in the NBA in terms of possible success but health is right there with it oh no doubt and honestly given the history Mike at this point and where they are in the standings if I’m Philadelphia I take the Long View with Joel and I I you hate to say shut it down just because the fans have been through so much but you need the big guy healthy to have any Shot Two Shots a shot obviously didn’t go in they’re in the penalty K Alexander now seven of nine from the line 26 points in 28 minutes like you don’t you watching him play all of a sudden you see he’s got 26 points with two minutes to go on the third Tes the NBA’s leading score Garza hoists up a three and that’s good how about Garza from downtown only his sixth three-pointer of the season was shooting just 22% with the t-wolves getting some real nice impact from their [Applause] [Music] [Applause] bench Dort clean look side of the backboard Shannon attacks of course stolen G Alexander took it right out of his hands with a three that’s good wow it’s a big turn right there Mike look like you had an opportunity and the Strip by Shay just clean Wiggins is four for four all from three-point range 15 minutes in 13 minutes he’s got 15 points Edwards doubled that’s a tough pass McDaniels can’t get it Caruso tips at a door as we approach a minute remaining what has turned into a high scoring fun game Gil just alexand rattles into three 29 Points an OKC up by four he’s come alive with 14 points here in the [Applause] period Edwards and a corner three will not go Edwards draws the foul on gilders Alexander but a love that that Aunt made that pass Mike because if your best player is showing confidence he’s touching the paint but that little pitch to an open shooter that just that just makes you feel good as a teammate I know this sounds like Captain Obvious but this is a very physical game no doubt off the rim great pursuit of the ball by an Minnesota has been outstanding from the free throw line 20 of 21 Jos Josh Minard checks into the game for the first [Applause] time McDaniels will sit 15 points nine rebounds for McDaniels best scoring stretch of his career Edwards 23 points seven assists seven rebounds two-point game final minute third quarter Minnesota trying to beat Oklahoma City for the second time this season they beat him the game right before the All-Star break with key players missing gilas alexand Rises up jumper rattles it in come on Mike they send an aggressive trap and he’s opportunistic when he’s going to attack to score it and he gets away from the trap and and makes that tough bucket that’s so good another 30o Plus game as Edwards throws it away 11th turnover from Minnesota the best players want this they want two on the ball because if they get an advantage it’s going to be a bucket for them or a bucket for a teammate and that was what Mark dagno was telling us before the game you know you can’t just conceive to the Trap and just say okay I’m going to just get off the ball no you’re their best offensive player go make a play that is special Oklahoma City has 39 points here in the third Minnesota had 40 points in the second this is against the best defensive team in OKC in Minnesota the six nice back door cut and a foul they’re trying to say it was interference on the shot Zach Zara is talking about they might count the bucket yep that’s a little teamwork from the officiating staff so count it and a free throw grabbing that net and ball on the cylinder might not with the aggressive play but not the smart play and Wallace will shoot great back door cut from Wallace Wallace has started a lot of games Martin dno likes to switch up his starting lineup every once in a while just change of pace not just give up opportunities but that’s an adjustment for the opponent more tools in the tool bag final seconds here in the third Caruso great defense Edwards just has to keep up that’s not a bad attempt considering but that’s Alex Caruso right there at a nutshell some great defense Shay giving him a lot of love because he understands those are the plays that contribute to winning how about Shay and ant I mean this is a back and forth game little step in Oklahoma City 42 points in the third and trying to hang in that step back left that is so good welcome back to NBA Sunday presented by state farmer here with nas Reed Nas you guys are already kind of down guys coming into this thing you lose Jaylen Clark there for a while what is the conversation like in the Huddle as guys have to take on slightly different roles same thing everybody got to next man up I don’t think none of us are worried we just got to step up you know in Big Time basketball game gilis Alexander has 31 going into the fourth quarter what do you have to do to try to him just keep you know keep keep trying to stop him uh keep trying to get him to uh shoot tough shots I mean it’s sh so I mean he’s going to get to the free throw line a little bit so you just got kind of contain him a little bit that’s that’s that’s all we got to do n good luck thank you for the time thank you all right guys back to you all right jge well in what he calls a big time basketball game he’s putting on a Big Time Performance with 22 points jayen Williams drives Alexander Walker right with him Isaiah Joe comes flying in and grabs the offensive rebound and it’s fou there’s so much to like about Maz Reed terrific player who’s worked hard to get where he is team first guy and his favorite food is pizza he’s every man he’s got unbelievable touch I’ll tell you that another start and another terrific performance arenstein drives inside and lays it up and in hartstein having a strong game he gets isolated at the elbow against Conley and that’s easy money hardenstein in the games he’s played this year they’re 31 and four Reed misses that one hardstein Outlet after his e rebound Isaiah Joe looking for some opening finds it but way off nazri grabs the rebound re now fou split the two Defenders I think it’s before the shot it’ll be a side Out Hard to Handle because you have to contest the three-point shooting of this guy but he can also deck it little wi there as he went down hard so no Shay here you got to continue to get good shots if you’re Oklahoma City Alexander Walker rushed that one arenstein now with nine rebounds this is where they let Jaylen Williams take over and run the offense Arin down a lane there’s that floater up shot won’t go Reed had it knocked out of his hands by Wallace but Minnesota ball he’s frustrated that is a very typical shot for hartenstein that’s right in his window for that floater I’m sorry Mike they they trapped Williams you know they’re trying to say okay somebody besides Williams will take shots for us now Shannon back out Alexander Walker Corner three is good second three-pointer yeah same spot as his first three-pointer Mike he has turned himself into a legit guy Jaylen Williams and a foul call Walker shocked and dismayed at the whistle four fouls on him now Jaylen with the crossover he likes going left he obviously gets his arm and that’s why he lost [Applause] control Jaylen Williams gets away goes inside tried to reverse AR Knight tipped it but right to Alexander Walker Shannon to Dillingham you got two rookies out there right here crunch time fourth quarter of a very important game Alexander Walker spots up hits the three he’s got 11 points time out as the timber wolves and thunder are tied at 105 so he has both started and come off the bench he has made a couple of monster threes for this group dreaming big brought to you by a rocket jayen clar dreaming big about playing in the NBA in just the second NBA start in 18 minutes at 14 points this rookie from UCLA knocking down some threes playing some great defense but he hit the back of his head on a hard fall went back to the locker room in one of his just a a great coming out game here for him and with the latest on his injury let’s check in with George unfortunately for Jaylen as great a night as he had after that fall he’s dealing with neck pain he is out for this game Mike all right George he started again just his second NBA start just his 16th NBA game Wiggins gets in the paint well defended that time comes up short race for the rebound hardstein touched it last and well defended Mike by the guy who replaced Jaylen Clark Dillingham who in the last game game got pulled in the second quarter for an ill-advised shot and sa the rest of the game so let’s watch Dillingham here in these big minutes how he performs this is where the Timberwolves have struggled close games decided by three points or less in clutch games they have had their struggles they’ve lost 20 clutch games this season Alexander Walker Lighting it up here in the fourth and Minnesota up by two that was a two-pointer Jaylen Williams drives and a blocking foul called on Mike [Applause] connley we talked about Alexander Walker started his career in New Orleans this is a step back over Isaiah hartenstein and another big three by the guy they call no here and we’re going to get a challenge from Chris Finch I kindly thought he got in there in time or is it just a regular timeout we’ll find out when we come back the NBA on ESPN is presented all season long by State Farm like a good neighbor State Farm is the successful challenge for Minnesota D Williams the drive and conly takes the hit he was in legal guarding position so instead of a foul on connley and two free throws it’s an offensive foul on Williams is second and Minnesota ball again this team number one in the NBA in clutch games Minnesota 35 of them they’re 15 and 20 they’ve had trouble closing him out n Reed Shannon out Dillingham extra pass Alexander Walker with another three 11 straight point point and the t-wolves up by five he’s got 16 points blocking foul this time as Shannon Mike you can’t overstate the message to Dillingham he had an uncontested three but the young man took an ill advised shot he understands Alexander Walker is blistering hot so he sends the extra pass you want to get Finch’s trust back that’s the pass you make Alexander Walker 39% from three on the season connley now will sit down as McDaniels back in Alexander Walker that’s that’s his mentor Chris Finch says that K’s had such a huge impact on his career Caruso kicks it out Jaylen Williams good close out from Reed Williams now drives out to Wallace Wallace double team shot clock winding down Caruso a three he got it Alex Caruso with his first three-pointer of the game Mike SGA gets back on the floor and they get a terrific shot Jaylen Williams can man this offense but tonight they have been much better with Shay on the floor Nas Reed guarded by Wallace pass inside McDaniels blocked by Homen and then a foul called on McDaniels a great defensive play from hren his third block shot he’s a little shaken up 16 points four boards and the three blocks me just great job sitting down and being patient on the up fake he knows McDaniels has got a tough job to get over him but you got to be patient as a shot blocker and he is Dillingham sits down Edwards back in still plenty of time left Caruso is going to try again Caruso hits again his second [Applause] three-pointer you feel the difference it feels like the confidence level with with sgaa on the floor is totally different that’s why he is the leading candidate with jic for MVP Edwards on the drive gets inside reverse bangs it in pretty play from Anthony Edwards He’s got 25 [Applause] 17 lead changes in this one gild Alexander drives in they go back up top hren tries a three puts it in hen’s third three-pointer he’s three for three this is like the Finish to the second quarter both teams just making shots hr’s eight of 10 from the field [Applause] now’s Reed five of the 24 drives down the lane nearly taken away but a held ball call Jaylen Williams I mean are you kidding me defensively how good is that individual defense this guy is cross positional he’s strong he’s tough he’s patient look at that snatch that’s ridiculous that’s what again those those momentum changing plays that he often does in the fourth quarter as Reed and Williams will jump if Minnesota wins they have three and a half seconds to shoot they win the tip which they do Alexander Walker Wear blocked by guildas Alexander Shay is the only player Mike averaging over 25 a block and a steal that’s a big one Wallace the rebound off the Miss HR tries another three gilders Alexander tips it but right to McDaniels McDaniels spins in traffic Wallace right there SGA pulls up three-pointer get good and a five-point lead for Oklahoma City SGA now with 34 points he checked in and the game flipped still five and a half remaining Edwards and a whistle and a foul before any shot I mean they they’ve gotten Alex Caruso two quality shots off Shay guildas Alexander passes he was slow up the floor so he had an advantage going up and he shoots the three and lets him hear it third foul on jayen Williams Shannon sits down connley back in and these are the games can Minnesota start to get consistent playing some good basketball can they close out these close games now down by five as hren will sit right swear the spotlight on Anthony Edwards decision making late comes into play he’s got an opportunity here Jaylen Williams is right now the center for OKC five on the 24 Edwards to Reed Reed launches a three-pointer can’t get it the fall Dort huls in the rebound got a defensive Rebound with this lineup if you’re OKC G Alexander nice feet inside they kick it out Caruso Corner three bucks it in Caruso all of a sudden here in the fourth quarter with three three-pointers and an eight-point lead for [Music] OKC Edwards kicks it out in the corner McDaniels line drive way off and a foul call on gilders Alexander that’s going to be his third and it’s the 1D team foul he was contending with Alexander Walker on the weak side trying to keep him off the glass had to hold him to do [Applause] it Edwards Dort on him Reed Caruso the rebound Caruso making some big plays here in the fourth under four and a half [Applause] remaining a thunder of five of seven from three-point range here in this fourth quarter Jaylen Williams tries another one Jaylen William Hicks another one now six of eight here on the fourth quarter and the lead is ballooned to 11 12 straight points from OKC Edward shake and bake tries again gets inside and he’s fouled that’s now four team fouls Mike I’m not sure what the run is from the moment moment Shay gildas Alexander checked back into this ball game but that is when this entire game flipped on its head Minnesota had all its momentum he’s hit Alex Caruso for a couple of open threes and Jaylen showing some range right there call in the active shooting so Edwards will go to the line where he’s seven of eight tonight 25 points ESPN NBA Wednesday double header Knicks and the Sixers from Madison Square Garden New York followed by the Spurs and the Rockets NBA Countdown tips off our coverage at 6:30 Eastern second free throw is good the Timberwolves led by five when SGA came back in the game now they Trail by nine hilders Alexander scoring Distributing and even defending kicks it out in the corner KAS Wallace Corner three Edwards goes high for the rebound looks to push you don’t have to hit home runs here Mike you got to get good shots Edwards flips it up with the left hand McDaniels F won’t go but he got fouled Jaylen Williams trying to plead the case that McDaniels got away with a push or that he was pushed into the defender was pushed in and dno is begging his his team for a review I think he’s going to time out and a challenge this Mike yep look there’s the push by mcanderson looked like a push on Dort that one might be overturned as well three and a half to play nine-point lead for oi challenging this call and watch McDaniels as the shove not a big shove but enough as Dort was moved that could easily get overturned that’s going to be overturned there’s no doubt should be they called the foul on Dort Zach Zara in his 22nd season one of the elite officials longtime finals referee he’s the crew chief tonight obviously a big call with four and a half remaining who who ended up with the basketball mik well it would be a foul oh right right I mean I’m I’m surprised that this is taken this long yeah I agree but the the on off with the you talked about the Run well we thought he was going to talk to us see this is what you hate at the end of a good hard for game this long Delight like make the decision well they’ve made it cuz Chris spinch is body language and rolling his head he’s upset after review the contact by McDaniels to Dort was not clear and conclusively illegal therefore the call on the floor stands defensive foul on D wow I’m shocked wow wow okay you first of all Dort is not a player to give in right I mean he he just physically is never going to give in all you need on a on you just need a slight shove to push a player underneath the rim where he is impossible to get the rebound I got to be I think they’re wrong I mean I just think they’re wrong I don’t I don’t get that but McDaniels will shoot the free throws it’s had another good game 15 points 11 rebounds and every free throw used right now for Minnesota down by nine Dort meanwhile picks up his third Daniels who signed that 5year $136 million contract that’s how highly they thought of not only his great defense but his ability to improve offensively boy they’ve seen that last couple of weeks oh my goodness yes it’s a pair seven-point game they’re 25 of 26 from the free throw line 96% as a team tonight gilis Alexander looking finds Caruso back up top shot clock at eight sneaks inside Caruso gets another look puts it up ball deflected and kuso chases it down for a new 14 on the shot clock SGA spins shoots can’t get it the fall Minnesota still alive under three minutes remaining here in the fourth good defense from [Applause] Wallace Alexander Walker fouled by Wallace and now free throws and nille Alexander Walker who already got 16 points BL 31 minutes tonight so two very important free throws here he has really found a great role with this team with 244 remaining coming up next on Sports Center we’ll talk about the thunder big perk will join the show must see highlights of Alex oetkin as he gets closer to Wayne gry’s alltime goals record and top 10 plays of the week David Lloyd Phil Murphy on ESPN and the ESPN app that’s coming up Chad comes back in Wallace goes out so they get a little bit bigger Chad has done a nice job contesting shots defensively he’s going to give you a three-point shooter another three-point shooter around Shay Mike they’re zoning up behind but they’re trying to take the ball out of sga’s hands so they’ll Blitz him here back to a five-point game SGA Drive shot blocked from behind by Reed his fourth block of the game here’s Edwards two and a half remaining Edwards on the drive off of his leg stripped and it’s going to be OKC ball a costly turnover there number 13 from Minnesota again he he gets the corner turn not not easy to do against Jaylen williamss now he’s got to beat holr who comes over in rotation forcing turnovers that’s what OKC does better than anyone in the [Music] NBA Jaylen Williams three-pointer bang Jaylen Williams from downtown how many threes has SGA assisted on in this fourth quarter a couple to Caruso another one there Edwards on the drive goes inside Up and Under Banks it oh what a sweet move from Anthony Edwards the best part is how efficient it was Mike I mean that’s very few seconds off the clock that’s how explosive he is under two to play Thunder hanging on to a six-point lead SGA pulls up knocks it down the mid-range assassin does it again and it’s an eight-point lead a 36-point game for Giles Alexander Alexander Walker shot blocked m Daniels back up connley connley lines up a three-pointer that’s good huge three-pointer for Mike connley and it’s back to five that’s Big Mike they need him it’s been a tough up and down season that’s a big time delivery Williams gets inside difficult shot can’t get it the fall Caruso back to Williams Up and Under won’t go but a foul wow it’s cus I mean the number of winning plays this guy makes think about the reaction earlier in the game to SGA at the pressure he he applied getting a possession and just the pursuit of the ball I want Alex Caruso on my side Relentless just makes winning plays and Williams some big free throws here Williams stke 17 points nine assists just hit that big three moments ago also has three steals and gets that first free throw to go Wallace will come in now and homeg Grom sit down offense defense substitutions for [Applause] dig missed that one McDaniels the rebound as we approach a minute remaining kuso so a good ball denial all the way out by half court right up into Edwards finds Conley NZ re gets a clean look in and out that one rattles out and gives us Alexander the rebound as we’re under a minute remaining that was a good look for Nas Reed who’s been just fabulous [Applause] tonight seven on the shot clock and was not deflected threw it out of bounds Minnesota gets it back and Chris Finch calls timeout Arc egel thought it was deflected the Thunder seemed to think he’ll take a timeout with 33 seconds remaining Minnesota ball well they thought it was deflected that’s we’ve watched the replay several times during the timeout it’s so close but not challenged regardless so Minnesota will have it so there 33.3 seconds remaining 129 123 Alexander Walker inbound with his cousin right on top of him Dort gets the Edwards assignment Jaylen Williams Nas Reed any switches that have to happen have to happen cleanly communication’s got to be high trying to get it into Edward’s hands Caruso right on him Edwards on the drive pulls back puts up a three won’t go just can’t get the shots to fall down the stretch Minnesota has to foul and they let a lot of time off the clock 16 seconds remaining and now the crowd heading for the exits a six-point lead free throws we’ll make sure there’s no shot at a miracle comeback now Mike I can’t say enough about Minnesota and the job Chris Finch and this group did tonight you down three starters you got hit with a flurry of punches and you go down 19 and yet you respond and I’m telling you this Nas Reed as a starter has been Sensational Julius Randall in a contract year you got death you’ve got I guess an interesting dilemma but just really really love the fight of Minnesota second free throw good seven-point game Edwards Alexander Walker three-pointer that won’t go rebound deflected and that’ll do it a huge Road win for OKC they come back and win this one now 9- one in their last 10 games improved to 46 and 10 the cousans with the Embrace Shay guildas Alexander with 37 points eight assists eight rebounds but another one of those efforts by this team that so many different players contributed relentless on the defensive end of the floor Caruso winning plays jet was terrific defensively as the contesting Defender Shay gets four assists on 3o field goals in the fourth quarter when he checked back in the momentum was in the other direction and they were down five and this guy was Sensational well this historic regular season continues for OKC and Guild’s Alexander now with George thank you Mike Shay this thing was a slugfest back and forth a game of runs how did you guys finish them off yeah we stayed composed obviously in this environment and with a good team like that it’s going to be a games of runs they’re going to put up a fight we made our run they made theirs it’s a 48 minute game and we had to be the better team at the end of the 48 minutes that was who we were you guys have been whole as a team from an injury perspective for the last couple of games where are you guys in your process of kind of honing your skills as a group together yeah we’re still figuring it out just kind of scary we have some moving Parts some new lineups but it doesn’t matter we we come out here and compete together and everything else just Falls where it is and tonight we did so we got a w your coach’s birthdays today what did you guys do for him the rookie sang and then I’m going to go in the back and give him a nugie and pour some water on his head well Shay I appreciate the time and thank you for letting me share in your aura tonight absolutely appreciate you there it is all right Mike back to you mark dle turning the big 40 and they reward him with the victory this magical season continues for OKC they are a championship Contender meanwhile Minnesota they get healthy they can still be a huge factor for our producer Paul Irvin director Charlie Reynolds of course for Doris and George Mike Green saying thanks for watching this presentation of the NBA coming up next Sports Center soong from Minneapolis [Music]

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