Timberwolves Aim to Even Series Against Thunder in Pivotal Game 4

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ICARO Media Group
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26/05/2025 18h20

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The Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder are set for a pivotal Game 4 clash in the NBA playoffs at the Target Center. With the Timberwolves looking to tie the series and the Thunder aiming for a commanding 3-1 lead, this contest promises to be a thrilling encounter.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been impressive in the playoffs, winning five of their last seven games. Their recent form has seen them score an average of 115.8 points per game while allowing 105.7 points. Key players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging 28.7 points and 6.6 assists, and Jalen Williams, contributing 19.6 points and 5.8 rebounds, have been pivotal for the team. The Thunder’s shooting statistics include 32.4 percent from three-point range and 78.7 percent from the free-throw line, while they restrict opponents to 32.2 percent from beyond the arc and collect 44.8 rebounds per game.

On the other hand, the Minnesota Timberwolves have shown resilience, especially at home, where they boast a 5-1 record in the playoffs. Their offense averages 108.9 points per game on 46.2 percent shooting, while their defense allows 103.4 points on 44.2 percent shooting. Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle lead the Timberwolves' charge, averaging 26.5 points with 8.2 rebounds and 22.8 points with 5.2 assists, respectively. The team is shooting 35.1 percent from three-point range and 76.8 percent from the free-throw line, defensively allowing 34.7 percent from deep and securing 42.5 rebounds per game.

The Timberwolves have several factors in their favor. The home team has won each of the Thunder's last six playoff games, and the Thunder have struggled on the road in the Western Conference Finals, losing seven of their last eight games in such situations. Furthermore, the Timberwolves have a solid track record as home underdogs against Northwest Division opponents, successfully covering the spread in each of their last seven games in this scenario.

Conversely, the Thunder have their own set of favorable conditions. They have won their last 10 night games following a road loss and have efficiently covered the spread in these instances. The Timberwolves, however, have experienced difficulty maintaining their form, particularly against Western Conference opponents after winning as underdogs.

Player performances will be crucial in determining the outcome of Game 4. Noteworthy stats include Mike Conley ranking 5th in the league for assist-to-turnover ratio at 4.3, and Jaden McDaniels being tied for 8th in total steals and blocks with 184. For the Thunder, Isaiah Joe stands out with the 3rd highest average for three-pointers made per 36 minutes (4.3), while Jalen Williams ranks 7th in steals per game (1.6).

With no injuries reported for the Timberwolves and only Nikola Topic out for the Thunder, both teams are nearly at full strength. Betting projections favor the Timberwolves with the +3 spread, considering their strong trend of covering as home underdogs. Although the Thunder have been the more consistent betting option with a 61-32-4 ATS record, the Timberwolves’ determination and home-court advantage might tip the scales in their favor for Game 4.

Ultimately, Minnesota's ability to perform under pressure and the backing of their home crowd could see them square the series at two games apiece.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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