The Oklahoma City Thunder head to Minnesota on Friday night for a heavyweight clash with the Timberwolves - a rematch of their tight November 26 showdown that saw OKC edge out a win. This time around, both teams are in very different places, and the stakes feel even higher.
The Thunder, sitting at an eye-popping 25-2, are coming in hot after a dominant 122-101 win over the Clippers on Thursday. That one came after a four-day break, and they looked every bit refreshed.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was in full command, dropping 32 points to go with six assists and seven boards. He’s been the engine all season, and Thursday was another reminder of just how surgical he can be when he’s in rhythm.
But this game isn’t just about momentum - it’s about depth and durability. The Thunder are on the second night of a back-to-back, and while they haven’t officially filed their injury report yet, we already know a few key names won’t be available.
Nikola Topic remains out following testicular surgery, and Thomas Sorber is sidelined with a torn ACL. That thins out their rotation, but so far this season, OKC has shown they can absorb those blows and keep rolling.
Minnesota, meanwhile, is looking to bounce back after a tough 116-110 loss to the Grizzlies on Wednesday. Julius Randle led the way with 21 points, but it came on a rough 9-of-21 shooting night. The Timberwolves just couldn’t quite string together enough stops or clean possessions down the stretch, and it cost them.
The big question for Minnesota heading into Friday: Will Anthony Edwards suit up? The star guard is listed as questionable as he continues to manage a foot injury.
His presence - or absence - changes the entire complexion of this matchup. Without him, the Wolves lose their most dynamic shot-creator and a key perimeter defender.
Mike Conley has already been ruled out with Achilles tendinopathy, and several other players - Joan Beringer, Enrique Freeman, and Rocco Zikarsky - remain unavailable due to G League assignments or two-way status.
Tipoff is set for 8:30 p.m. CT from Target Center, and this one has all the makings of a statement game.
For Oklahoma City, it’s a chance to reinforce their standing as one of the league’s most complete teams. For Minnesota, it’s about proving they can hang with the best - especially if they get their star back in the lineup.