Minnesota (0-0) at Oklahoma City (0-0)
- When: May 20 2025, 8:30 PM
- Where: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- TV: ESPN
Timberwolves vs. Thunder – Game 1 Preview, Prediction and Player Props
Spread: Oklahoma City is favored by 7.5 | Total is set at: 216.0.
Oklahoma City Thunder Overview
The Oklahoma City Thunder are riding high after a dominant 125-93 Game 7 win over the Denver Nuggets. Now, they enter the Western Conference Finals with just a couple of days to catch their breath. This postseason, the Thunder have been a defensive juggernaut, boasting the league’s best defensive rating at 101.6 points allowed per 100 possessions. That defense has been key to their success, as they’ve dismantled opponents with suffocating pressure and elite rim protection.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been the engine driving OKC’s success, averaging 29.0 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.9 rebounds in the playoffs. His ability to create off the dribble and knock down clutch shots has been crucial. Alongside him, Chet Holmgren has been a defensive anchor, swatting shots and disrupting offensive schemes. If Oklahoma City maintains its defensive edge and Gilgeous-Alexander continues his offensive outbursts, they have a clear path to a Game 1 victory.
Minnesota Timberwolves Overview
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves enter this series with fresh legs, having wrapped up the Warriors in just five games. Minnesota has been exceptional defensively as well, holding a 106.8 defensive rating in the postseason, second only to OKC. Anthony Edwards has been the focal point of their attack, averaging 26.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. His explosiveness and shot-making ability make him a constant threat, especially with the added rest.
The T-Wolves will be relying on Rudy Gobert to control the paint and disrupt OKC’s driving lanes. Gobert, who only played in one of their regular-season meetings, will be a difference-maker in this matchup. If Minnesota can capitalize on second-chance opportunities and limit turnovers, they could make things interesting.
Player Props Picks:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Over 31.5 Points: He’s been lighting it up all playoffs, and the Timberwolves’ defense will have its hands full.
Anthony Edwards – Over 6.5 Rebounds: Edwards has been crashing the boards consistently, and with OKC’s aggressive style, he should get plenty of opportunities.
Game 1 Prediction and Final Score
Spread: Thunder to win and cover the -7.5 spread. The Thunder’s defensive intensity, paired with Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring prowess, should be enough to overwhelm Minnesota’s offense, especially with OKC’s recent momentum.
Total Prediction: Lean towards the Under 216.5, as both defenses are top-tier this postseason.
Final Score Prediction: Oklahoma City 111, Minnesota 102
Expect OKC to take control early and lean on their defensive strength to set the tone in Game 1.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
