Minnesota (31-27) at Oklahoma City (46-10)
- When: Feb 24 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- TV: NBA TV
Game Preview
Oklahoma City Favored by 12.5, Total Set at 228
The Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves are seeing a lot of each other lately, as they prepare to square off for the third time in four games and the second straight night in this Western Conference battle. The Thunder secured a 130-123 victory in Minneapolis on Sunday, powered by another stellar performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Now, they return home as 12.5-point favorites, looking to close out the season series on a high note.
Oklahoma City continues to sit atop the Western Conference standings with a 46-10 record, while Minnesota has struggled in recent weeks, losing four of its last five games and slipping to seventh place in the West. With several key injuries impacting the Timberwolves’ rotation, the Thunder will look to take full advantage and cover the double-digit spread.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Continuing Their Dominance in the West
The Thunder have been one of the most consistent teams in the league, and Sunday’s win over Minnesota showcased their depth and resilience. Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with 37 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, but the supporting cast was just as crucial.
Alex Caruso hit three clutch three-pointers in the fourth quarter, while Chet Holmgren protected the rim with three blocks. Seven different Thunder players recorded multiple assists, proving how balanced and efficient this team has been all season.
Despite the win, head coach Mark Daigneault wasn’t satisfied with the defensive effort, as Oklahoma City allowed 123 points—well above their league-best 104.8 defensive rating. He emphasized the need to tighten things up on that end of the floor in Monday’s rematch.
One key factor to monitor is Chet Holmgren’s availability, as he has yet to play both nights of a back-to-back since returning from a pelvic fracture. If he sits, the Thunder will need to adjust their interior defense against a Minnesota team that ranks top five in rebounding despite its injury issues.
Key Betting Trends for Oklahoma City:
The Thunder are 9-1 in their last 10 games
Oklahoma City is 6-2 ATS in its last eight home games
The Over has hit in five of OKC’s last seven games
Minnesota Timberwolves: Short-Handed and Struggling to Find Consistency
The Timberwolves have been in a tough stretch, dropping four of their last five games, and injuries have played a big role in their struggles.
Rudy Gobert has missed three straight games with back spasms, while Julius Randle (groin strain) and Donte DiVincenzo (toe sprain) remain out, though both are nearing a return. Jaylen Clark suffered a neck injury in Sunday’s game, and his status for Monday remains uncertain.
Even with the injuries, Minnesota was competitive on Sunday, keeping pace with the Thunder until a late 25-13 run by OKC sealed the game. Anthony Edwards has continued to be the go-to scorer, but frustrations are mounting—he has picked up two technical fouls since the All-Star break and is now just two away from an automatic one-game suspension.
Minnesota is now in seventh place in the Western Conference, one game away from falling into the play-in tournament. With a four-game road trip beginning Monday, the Timberwolves will need to find answers quickly or risk falling even further down the standings.
Key Betting Trends for Minnesota:
The Timberwolves have covered the spread in three of their last five road games as underdogs
Minnesota is 1-4 in its last five games overall
The Under has hit in four of Minnesota’s last six games
Game Prediction & Best Bets
The Thunder have been dominant all season, and with Minnesota dealing with multiple injuries, this matchup favors Oklahoma City heavily. The Timberwolves kept it close for three quarters on Sunday, but their lack of depth in the frontcourt and inconsistent defensive play late in games have been costly.
Even if Holmgren sits, OKC still has the depth and offensive firepower to control the game. Expect another strong performance from Gilgeous-Alexander, as the Thunder should win comfortably at home.
Best Bets:
Oklahoma City -12.5 – The Thunder should pull away late against a depleted Minnesota squad.
Over 228 – Both teams have been playing at a fast pace, and defensive lapses could push this over the total.
Oklahoma City First Half -7 – The Thunder should come out strong at home after a high-scoring game on Sunday.
Final Score Prediction: Oklahoma City 123, Minnesota 108
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
