The 2025 NBA conference finals kicked off with the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder facing the No. 6 seed Minnesota Timberwolves. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder to a dominant Game 1 win with 31 points, setting the tone for the series. In the Eastern Conference, the No. 3 seed New York Knicks will take on the No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers in a highly anticipated matchup between Tyrese Haliburton and Jalen Brunson. Both teams are vying for a spot in the Finals, hoping to make their first appearance in years.
The Thunder’s defense proved crucial in their Game 1 victory, holding the Timberwolves to 34.9% shooting from the floor and forcing 19 turnovers. Despite a slow start from Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, the duo found their rhythm in the third quarter, outscoring the Timberwolves and helping Oklahoma City secure a double-digit lead. Chet Holmgren also made a significant impact with nine of his 15 points coming in a crucial run in the fourth quarter. On the other hand, the Timberwolves struggled offensively, relying heavily on Julius Randle’s 28 points to stay competitive. Minnesota will need to regroup and improve their shooting efficiency to bounce back in Game 2.
In Game 2, the Timberwolves will look to find ways to score in the paint after managing just 20 paint points in Game 1. Oklahoma City’s defense, despite downsizing their lineup, proved effective in limiting Minnesota’s inside scoring opportunities. The Thunder’s strategy of packing the paint and forcing the Timberwolves to take outside shots paid off, as Minnesota struggled from beyond the arc for the majority of the game. Moving forward, Minnesota will need to find a balance between inside and outside scoring to challenge Oklahoma City’s defensive scheme. The upcoming games in both conferences promise intense matchups and exciting basketball as the teams battle for a chance to advance to the Finals.
