FROM play-in participants to Western Conference Final contenders in just two years – the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves are set for a high-stakes showdown with a trip to the NBA Finals on the line.
Their journey highlights the rapid ascent of two exciting young cores.
Rewind to 2023: Minnesota edged out OKC in Minneapolis for the eighth seed. Fast forward, and the Thunder, boasting a league-leading and franchise-best regular season record, now hold home-court advantage, kicking off the series in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 (PH time).
However, don’t count out the Timberwolves, who finished strong, winning 17 of their last 21 games, despite their sixth seed. Their regular-season battles were evenly split, each stealing a win on the other’s turf, hinting at a tight contest ahead.
OKC returns to the Conference Finals for the first time since 2016, a testament to their swift rebuild.
Meanwhile, Minnesota, having reached this stage last year, carries the weight of that experience. Coach Chris Finch believes this prior exposure is invaluable for his squad.
“Certainly last year’s experience helps a ton, and that’s what really this is all about — layering these experiences on top of each other so you can draw from them time and again and gain confidence,” Finch said.
The engine driving both teams? Their electrifying superstars: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the Thunder and Anthony Edwards for the Timberwolves.
Both have been putting up stellar numbers in the playoffs, setting the stage for a captivating individual duel as they both chase their first NBA Finals appearance.
Their contrasting yet equally determined mindsets – Gilgeous-Alexander focused on the present, Edwards on conquering legacies – add another layer of intrigue.
Speaking of legacies, Anthony Edwards has earned the moniker “Legend Killer” from WWE’s Randy Orton, a nod to his team’s recent playoff victories over teams headlined by NBA royalty. Gilgeous-Alexander, who himself took down reigning MVP Nikola Jokic, could be Edwards’ next target.
Adding a personal touch, Thunder’s Gilgeous-Alexander will face his cousin and Canadian national teammate, Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Despite their close bond, Gilgeous-Alexander’s competitive spirit is clear.
Beyond the stars, key role players will be crucial. OKC’s Alex Caruso has elevated his game in the playoffs, providing valuable defense and playmaking off the bench. For Minnesota, Julius Randle’s evolving role and impactful play provide a veteran presence.
A lingering point of contention? Timberwolves coach Finch has previously voiced concerns about the officiating in their matchups against the Thunder, particularly regarding fouls called on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. This dynamic will be something to watch closely in the series.
In essence, this Western Conference Finals pits the Thunder’s youthful dominance against the Timberwolves’ battle-tested grit, fueled by two of the league’s brightest young talents. Expect a compelling clash with narratives aplenty. / FROM THE WIRES