Timberwolves Crush Thunder in Game 3: Edwards Shines in Historic Blowout

Timberwolves Roar Back in Game 3, Dominate Thunder 143-101 in Western Conference Finals

The Minnesota Timberwolves delivered a statement performance on May 24, 2025, obliterating the Oklahoma City Thunder 143-101 in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals at the Target Center in Minneapolis. This 42-point rout marked the Timberwolves' highest-scoring playoff game in franchise history and shifted the series momentum, narrowing OKC’s lead to 2-1. Led by an electrifying Anthony Edwards and a revitalized supporting cast, the Wolves showcased their resilience and defensive prowess in front of a raucous home crowd. Let’s dive into the highlights and key moments that defined this historic beatdown.

Anthony Edwards Sets the Tone

Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves’ superstar guard, was the catalyst for Minnesota’s dominant performance, dropping 30 points in just three quarters. His explosive drives and playmaking overwhelmed OKC’s top-rated defense, which had stifled him in Games 1 and 2. Edwards’ ability to attack the rim and facilitate for teammates set the stage early, and his intensity carried the Wolves to a commanding lead. By the time coach Chris Finch rested him in the fourth quarter, the game was well in hand, and Edwards had reminded everyone why he’s a cornerstone of this franchise.

Defensive Adjustments Shut Down SGA

The Thunder’s MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, was held to a season-low 14 points on 4-of-13 shooting, a stark contrast to his 38-point outburst in Game 2. Minnesota’s defensive game plan was masterful, with the Wolves dropping back in coverage to clog driving lanes and limit SGA’s trips to the free-throw line (only four attempts). This adjustment disrupted OKC’s rhythm, as their offense struggled to find answers against Minnesota’s aggressive rotations and rim protection. The Thunder were outscored by 32 points with SGA on the floor, underscoring the Wolves’ defensive dominance.

Julius Randle and Bench Step Up

After a dismal 6-point performance in Game 2, Julius Randle bounced back with 24 points on 9-of-15 shooting, finishing with a team-high +38 plus-minus. His ability to get to his spots and score efficiently in the post was crucial in exploiting OKC’s smaller lineups. Meanwhile, Terrence Shannon Jr. provided a spark off the bench, scoring 15 points in just 13 minutes, outscoring any individual Thunder player. Six Wolves reached double figures, showcasing the depth that had been missing in the first two games.

Thunder’s Offense Collapses

Oklahoma City, known for their offensive efficiency and ball movement, looked disjointed in Game 3. Despite their 30-assist performance in Game 2, the Thunder managed only a fraction of that cohesion, sleepwalking into Minnesota’s defensive traps. Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, who combined for 48 points in Game 2, couldn’t replicate their success, as the Wolves’ physicality and quick rotations neutralized OKC’s inside-outside game. The Thunder’s 101 points were their lowest output of the series, and their inability to adjust to Minnesota’s intensity raises questions about their resilience on the road.

Historic Context and Series Outlook

The Timberwolves’ 143 points set a franchise postseason record, and the 42-point margin was one of the largest in Western Conference Finals history. However, history isn’t on the Wolves’ side: no team has ever won an NBA championship after losing a playoff game by 40+ points, a stat OKC will need to defy to claim the title. With Game 4 looming on May 26 at Target Center, Minnesota has a chance to even the series, while the Thunder must regroup to avoid letting their 2-0 lead slip away. Edwards’ post-game comment—“All these chants about Wolves in six, Wolves in seven, we’re still down 2-1”—reflects the team’s focus on the work ahead.

Key Takeaways

• Minnesota’s Defense: The Wolves’ adjustments to limit SGA’s drives and force OKC into tough shots were game-changers.
• Home Court Advantage: The Target Center crowd fueled Minnesota’s energy, improving their playoff home record to 6-1.
• Balanced Attack: Six players in double figures, led by Edwards and Randle, showed the Wolves’ potential when their offense clicks.
• Thunder’s Challenge: OKC must find answers for Minnesota’s physicality and avoid falling into defensive traps in Game 4.

Game 3 was a reminder of the Timberwolves’ potential when they play with urgency and cohesion. Can they carry this momentum into Game 4, or will the Thunder’s championship pedigree shine through? Share your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned for our Game 4 preview!