Minnesota Timberwolves Dominate Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3, 143-101
The Minnesota Timberwolves delivered a resounding performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder, securing a 143-101 victory in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals. Anthony Edwards led the charge with 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, helping the Timberwolves close the series gap to 2-1. The game, played at the Target Center in Minneapolis, saw the Timberwolves set a franchise record for the most points scored in a playoff game. This win showcased Minnesota's offensive firepower and determination to bounce back after two tough losses in Oklahoma City.
This dominant performance wasn't just about Edwards, though. Julius Randle contributed 24 points, while Terrence Shannon Jr. added 15 points off the bench, highlighting the team's depth and ability to perform under pressure. The Timberwolves shot an impressive 57.3% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc, making it a night to remember for Minnesota fans. The Thunder, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm, shooting just 40.7% from the field.

According to Reddit, this game marks a significant turnaround for the Timberwolves, who needed a strong showing to stay competitive in the series.
Key Moments and Player Performances
The Timberwolves came out firing on all cylinders, establishing a significant lead in the first half. Edwards and Randle set the tone early, with highlight-reel plays that energized the crowd. The team's defense was also stifling, limiting the Thunder's key players and forcing turnovers. Here's a breakdown of notable player performances:
- Anthony Edwards: 30 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists. Edwards showcased his scoring ability and playmaking skills, leading the Timberwolves' offense with efficiency and aggression.
- Julius Randle: 24 points. Randle provided a strong inside presence, complementing Edwards' perimeter game and adding a physical dimension to the Timberwolves' attack.
- Terrence Shannon Jr.: 15 points. Shannon Jr. made a significant impact off the bench, providing a spark with his scoring and energy.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 14 points. Gilgeous-Alexander, who is usually the Thunder's leading scorer, struggled to find his rhythm against the Timberwolves' defense.

The Timberwolves' strong performance was also fueled by their ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities, outrebounding the Thunder 57-41. According to Reddit, the energy at the Target Center was electric, with fans eager to support their team in this crucial game.
Game Statistics and Analysis
The Timberwolves' victory was driven by their exceptional shooting performance and ability to control the boards. Here's a detailed look at the team stats:
Team | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | AST | PF | STL | TO | BLK | OREB | DREB | REB |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Oklahoma City Thunder | 35-86 | 14-44 | 17-19 | 19 | 20 | 5 | 14 | 3 | 5 | 26 | 41 |
Minnesota Timberwolves | 55-96 | 20-40 | 13-17 | 30 | 18 | 6 | 10 | 3 | 11 | 39 | 57 |
Here's a detailed look at key player statistics from the game:
Oklahoma City Thunder Player Stats
Player | MINS | PTS | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | ORB | DRB | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PF | +/- |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
J. Williams | 24:43 | 13 | 3-9 | 2-5 | 5-6 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 2 | -31 |
C. Holmgren | 20:48 | 10 | 3-7 | 1-4 | 3-3 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -8 |
I. Hartenstein | 19:06 | 6 | 3-6 | 0-0 | 0-1 | 0 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | -31 |
L. Dort | 21:45 | 6 | 2-4 | 2-4 | 0-0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | -22 |
S. Gilgeous-Alexander | 27:38 | 14 | 4-13 | 2-5 | 4-4 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 2 | -32 |
C. Wallace | 15:38 | 2 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -30 |
A. Caruso | 9:44 | 3 | 1-5 | 1-3 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | -16 |
I. Joe | 17:25 | 2 | 1-7 | 0-5 | 0-0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | -8 |
J. Williams | 17:20 | 2 | 0-6 | 0-6 | 2-2 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | -7 |
A. Wiggins | 16:11 | 5 | 2-5 | 1-3 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | -12 |
A. Mitchell | 18:58 | 14 | 6-11 | 1-4 | 1-1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | -12 |
K. Williams | 14:08 | 8 | 4-6 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | -3 |
D. Jones | 9:39 | 10 | 4-5 | 2-2 | 0-0 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
O. Dieng | 6:55 | 6 | 2-2 | 2-2 | 0-0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Minnesota Timberwolves Player Stats
Player | MINS | PTS | FGM-A | 3PM-A | FTM-A | ORB | DRB | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PF | +/- |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|