The Minnesota Timberwolves put on a memorable display against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite trailing by a huge margin, they managed a spectacular turnaround in the second half – with a decisive scene in overtime.
The game seemed to be decided long ago: Oklahoma City dominated the game and was already leading by 25 points in the middle of the third quarter. But Minnesota did not let go. Led by Jaden McDaniels, who delivered his best game of the season with 27 points (10 rebounds), the Timberwolves fought their way back bit by bit. In the final quarter in particular, the second line, with Terrence Shannon (17 points) and Naz Reid (22 points, 11 rebounds), turned on, while star player Anthony Edwards was only on the court for a few minutes.
With a 41:19 run in the fourth quarter, the Timberwolves forced overtime. McDaniels made it 121:121 with a three-point play with 11.9 seconds left on the clock. It then got dramatic in overtime: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who once again excelled with 39 points, ten rebounds and eight assists, had two chances to decide the game in favor of the Thunder. But Edwards blocked his shot at the basket with 13.2 seconds left on the clock and SGA missed an opportunity to equalize from downtown shortly afterwards.
Isaiah Hartenstein injured early on
The Thunder also had to do without Isaiah Hartenstein early on. The German center had scored four points and collected five rebounds (four of them offensive) in 16 minutes before his exit. After being hit in the face, he suffered a nose injury and did not return to the court. Head coach Mark Daigneault subsequently spoke of a bruise on the face.
Minnesota made history with its comeback: According to OptaStats, Minnesota is the first team in NBA history to win on the road against a team with a winning percentage of over 80 percent, despite trailing by at least 20 points entering the final quarter. While OKC continues to lead the Western Conference, the Timberwolves are closing the gap and making a statement in the fight for the top spots.
