OKLAHOMA CITY — In a thrilling comeback, the Minnesota Timberwolves surged to victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder with a score of 131-128 in overtime on Monday night. Jaden McDaniels led the charge for the Timberwolves, scoring 27 points. Anthony Edwards was pivotal in defense, as he denied Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s attempt to seize a late advantage.
Naz Reid contributed significantly with 22 points and 11 rebounds, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker added 21 points to the tally. Edwards, who ended with 17 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists, had a notable recovery after the Timberwolves’ recent 130-123 loss to the Thunder.
Gilgeous-Alexander showcased his skill with 39 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. However, Edwards blocked Gilgeous-Alexander’s shot during a crucial moment in overtime with just 13.2 seconds left on the clock. Gilgeous-Alexander also missed a potential game-tying three-pointer with only 2.9 seconds remaining.
Jalen Williams added 27 points while Aaron Wiggins contributed 19 for Oklahoma City, who still sit atop the Western Conference standings with a record of 46-11. Thunder’s forward, Chet Holmgren, who had recently returned after a three-month absence due to a pelvic fracture, was rested. Moreover, center Isaiah Hartenstein exited the match in the second quarter due to a bloody nose and did not return to the court.
At one point, Oklahoma City led by a hefty margin, 82-57 in the third quarter and stretched their advantage to 102-80 heading into the fourth. Nevertheless, reserve player Terrence Shannon inspired a comeback by scoring 11 of his 17 points in the fourth quarter, allowing the Timberwolves to outscore the Thunder 41-19.
**Takeaways**
– Timberwolves: The rally mostly didn’t involve Edwards, who spent only 3 and a half minutes in the fourth quarter on the court. Furthermore, the Timberwolves managed this victory without their center, Rudy Gobert, sidelined by lower back spasms.
– Thunder: Missed opportunities defined Oklahoma City’s game, as they failed to capitalize on many open shots.
**Key moment**
McDaniels delivered a clutch performance by scoring and drawing a foul with 11.9 seconds left in regulation. He converted the free throw to tie the game at 121, sending the contest into overtime.
**Key stat**
Remarkably, Minnesota became the first team in NBA history to win a road game when trailing by at least 20 points entering the fourth quarter against a team with an .800 or better winning percentage.
**Up next**
The Timberwolves are set to take on the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, while the Thunder will visit the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday.
