Minnesota (0-1) at Oklahoma City (1-0)
- When: May 22 2025, 8:30 PM
- Where: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- TV: ESPN
Timberwolves vs. Thunder – Game 2 Preview, Prediction and Player Props
Odds: Oklahoma City -7.5 | Total: 217.5
Oklahoma City Thunder Breakdown
The Thunder made a loud statement in Game 1, clamping down defensively and blowing the Timberwolves off the floor 114-88. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, fresh off his MVP coronation, reminded everyone why he earned the hardware, dropping 31 points including 20 after halftime and doing it with precision and pace. He’s the engine that makes OKC’s balanced machine run.
Coach Mark Daigneault mixed things up by utilizing a deeper bench, injecting Kenrich Williams into the rotation. Williams gave the Thunder some sneaky value with clutch buckets and defensive grit. OKC forced turnovers and turned them into easy buckets, a trend they’ll aim to repeat in Game 2.
Minnesota Timberwolves Breakdown
Game 1 was a wake-up call for Minnesota. After taking out Golden State with a balanced offensive attack, the Wolves ran into a defensive buzzsaw. Anthony Edwards, usually the focal point, had just 13 shots and ended with 18 points. He acknowledged the need to adapt, likely moving more off-ball to counter Oklahoma City’s gap-heavy defense.
The Timberwolves’ perimeter shooting vanished when it mattered, and Julius Randle after a hot start fizzled in the second half. Head coach Chris Finch knows his team needs to reset and find a new tempo.
Player Props Picks:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Over 31.5 Points: With MVP momentum and Minnesota’s defense scrambling to adjust, SGA is in a prime spot to lead the scoreboard again.
Anthony Edwards – Over 5.5 Assists: With OKC locking him down on drives, expect Edwards to facilitate more and rack up assists by getting teammates involved early.
Game 2 Prediction and Final Score
Oklahoma City’s blend of youthful energy, depth, and MVP-level leadership gives them the edge again at home. Minnesota may adjust, but expect the Thunder to maintain control.
Spread: Thunder -7.5
Toral: Under 217.5
Final Score Prediction: Oklahoma City 110, Minnesota 99
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
