The Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder have taken a powerful 2-0 lead within the Western Convention Finals after one other comparable efficiency in Sport 2 in opposition to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Identical to in Sport 1, each groups performed a detailed and aggressive first half. However after the break, the Thunder as soon as once more got here out stronger, particularly within the third quarter, which has change into their most dominant interval of the collection.
Earlier than the sport started, Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander acquired his first Michael Jordan MVP Trophy from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. However as soon as the match began, he rapidly targeted on serving to his workforce win Sport 2.
Within the first half, each groups traded baskets in a vigorous ambiance. However with beneath 5 minutes left within the second quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander scored OKC’s ultimate 11 factors earlier than halftime. His 3-pointer simply earlier than the break gave the Thunder an 8-point lead going into the third quarter.
Minnesota began the third with a slight 13-10 benefit, slicing the Thunder’s result in 5. However then Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams helped OKC go on an enormous 25-8 run to complete the quarter with a 93-71 lead. That run successfully sealed the sport.
By the primary two video games, the Thunder have outscored the Timberwolves 67-39 within the third quarter. Their robust defence and sharp capturing have been key. In Sport 1, that they had a 20-6 run to flip a small deficit into an enormous lead. Within the collection to this point, OKC are averaging 33.5 factors within the third quarter on 59.1% capturing from the sphere, 40% from three, and 81.8% from the free-throw line, with a +14 common scoring distinction.
Earlier than this collection, Minnesota had been the stronger second-half workforce within the playoffs, averaging 29.1 factors per half on good capturing numbers. However in opposition to the Thunder, they’ve dropped to simply 19.5 factors within the third quarter, capturing solely 30.8% general and a poor 15.8% from three, whereas committing 4 turnovers on common.
Coach Mark Daigneault’s sensible techniques and Gilgeous-Alexander’s management have performed an enormous function within the Thunder’s success. They now have the very best internet ranking (+15.5) and the bottom turnover proportion (9.3%) in third quarters in the course of the convention finals. Their defence has additionally been wonderful. Minnesota are averaging 16.5 turnovers per sport on this collection, giving them a 16.3% turnover fee.
This robust and targeted play has helped the Thunder keep in management with a decided mindset. With so many comebacks taking place within the 2025 Playoffs, OKC’s psychological power has made an enormous distinction.
If the Thunder can maintain their calm and confidence in Sport 3 on Saturday evening in Minnesota, they’ll have an important likelihood to go 3-0 up within the collection.
