Minnesota Timberwolves flipped the narrative with a brutal Game 3 showing, thrashing OKC Thunder
Image Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images
After dropping the first two games, the Minnesota Timberwolves roared back with a statement blowout win on Saturday. During the Timberwolves vs. Thunder game, the hosts showed why they are firmly in the conversation for the NBA title.
Despite holding a 2-0 lead, the OKC Thunder never looked in control of the Western Conference Finals. The Timberwolves started their game on high, with Anthony Edwards leading the charge. The home side posted 34 points, while the Thunder could only score 14 in the first quarter.
By the end of the first quarter, OKC looked mentally checked out of Game 3. Minnesota, maintaining their offensive drives, hit another excellent performance in the second quarter. At the half-time, the score hit 72-41 in favor of the Twolves.
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This remained one of their biggest performances in the NBA this season. And the best was yet to come. The 72 points scored by the Minnesota Timberwolves was also their highest in any half of any playoff game in their franchise history.
Target Center Turns Brutal For Thunder
Returning from halftime, the Thunder looked more composed and aggressive, determined to claw back some respect. Their heads were no more down, despite how the scoreboard read. The Minnesota Timberwolves, on the other hand, had the luxury to sit back with such a huge lead.
During the third quarter, OKC Thunder improved their offense significantly, posting 29 points. But with the momentum that the Twolves were having in the Timberwolves vs. Thunder game, there was hardly any stopping them. They scored 35 points in the third and 36 points in the fourth quarter.
Anthony Edwards starred with 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, leading Minnesota’s charge on both ends. While Julius Randle continued his fine run, scoring 24 points. On the other side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a woeful game, scoring 14 points. The Target Center arena was also buzzing with “Free Throw Merchant” chants every time SGA had the possession. Timberwolves won by 143-101 in the end.
Final Score:
TeamQ1Q2Q3Q4FinalTimberwolves34383536143Thunder14272931101