NBA Western Conference Finals: New MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander powers Thunder to Game 2 win over Timberwolves

The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their dominance this season, taking Game 2 of the NBA Western Conference Finals with a 118-103 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Paycom Center on Friday, May 23 (Philippine Standard Time).

A day after being named the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showed why he deserved the award by scoring a game-high 38 points on 12-for-21 shooting, while also adding eight assists, three rebounds, and three steals. The Thunder are not a one-man team, as Jalen Williams recorded a double-double with 26 points on 12-for-20 shooting and 10 rebounds, while Chet Holmgren added 22 points.

Anthony Edwards promised the Timberwolves would be more aggressive in Game 2. While he led from the front, it ultimately wasn’t enough. Edwards scored a team-high 32 points on 12-of-26 shooting, along with nine rebounds and six assists. Unfortunately for Minnesota, Julius Randle struggled, managing just six points on 2-for-11 shooting and was even benched during the fourth quarter.

Defended home court ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/94fcDOrKeH

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) May 23, 2025

Notably, the Timberwolves’ fate was sealed by the end of the first half, as they have struggled to close quarters all season. They trailed the Thunder by eight points at halftime. Although they cut the lead in half early in the third quarter, the Thunder outscored them 35-21 overall in that period.

The Thunder were clearly the better team in Game 2 and are now just two wins away from an NBA Finals appearance. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves have a lot of work to do if they hope to bounce back in the series.

The Timberwolves will have the home-court advantage for Game 3, scheduled for Sunday, May 25 (Philippine Standard Time), at the Target Center.

Key Stats:

• Most Points: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (38 in 42 minutes) 

   

• Most Assists: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (8 in 42 minutes) 

   

• Most Rebounds: Jalen Williams (10 in 39 minutes)

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