Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves (Image via Getty) The Oklahoma City Thunder and the Minnesota Timberwolves play each other for the third time this season on January 29. Both teams are near the top of the Western Conference and this game could matter later for playoff position.Oklahoma City comes in at 38-10 after a 104-95 win over the New Orleans Pelicans. Minnesota is 30-16 and looking to respond after losing its last game to the Utah Jazz. Each team has won once in the two earlier meetings this season.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves Recent performances
In the Oklahoma City Thunder’s last game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 29 points. Chet Holmgren added 20 points and 14 rebounds. Oklahoma City defended well in the second half and controlled the boards.Minnesota Timberwolves’ loss to Utah featured an off night from Anthony Edwards, who had trouble creating clean looks. The offense never found a steady flow.
Oklahoma City Thunder injury report vs Minnesota Timberwolves (January 29, 2026)
Gilgeous-Alexander is listed as probable with a minor ankle issue but is expected to play his normal minutes. Holmgren is fully available. Jalen Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein are both healthy and in the regular rotation. Rookie center Jaylin Williams is out with a knee injury. He has had a small role this season.
Minnesota Timberwolves injury report vs Oklahoma City Thunder (January 29, 2026)
Anthony Edwards is questionable with a sore hamstring. His status may not be known until shortly before the game. Rudy Gobert is probable after missing the last game with back tightness. He is expected to play, but his movement could be limited. Jaden McDaniels is set to play through a minor wrist sprain. Guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker remains out due to concussion protocol. That puts more responsibility on Mike Conley and rookie Josh Minott to handle the ball.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves Recent history between the teams
Oklahoma City Thunder has won seven of the last ten matchups going back to 2023. The teams met in the 2025 Western Conference Finals, where the Thunder won the series in six games on the way to a title. Holmgren’s rim protection was a key factor in that series.This season, Minnesota won the first meeting 112-110 at home. Oklahoma City took the second game 108-97 behind 35 points from Gilgeous-Alexander.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves Team numbers
Oklahoma City ranks first in the league in offensive rating at 121.3 and third in defensive rating at 108.7. The team shoots 48.9 percent from the field and 38.2 percent from three. It averages 27.4 assists per game and allows 42.3 points in the paint.Minnesota Timberwolves have the second-best defense at 107.9 and the fifth-ranked offense at 117.8. The team shoots 47.1 percent overall and 34.8 percent from three. Much of the scoring comes from Edwards, while Gobert leads the rebounding and shot blocking.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves Key matchup
If Edwards is healthy, his scoring against Gilgeous-Alexander’s all-around game will set the tone. Oklahoma City can also use defenders like Luguentz Dort to pressure Edwards on the perimeter, with Holmgren and Hartenstein protecting the rim behind them.If Gobert is slowed by his back, Oklahoma City’s guards will have more room to attack the basket.
What to expect in tonight’s Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves game
Minnesota Timberwolves will try to slow the game down, defend the paint, and win the rebounding battle. Oklahoma City will look to move the ball, shoot from deep, and play at a faster pace. The game takes place at Target Center and could influence the playoff race in the West.