The Minnesota Timberwolves 2025 NBA playoffs run came to a disappointing end on May 28, after they suffered a 124-94 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder in game 5 on the Western Conference Finals. This loss marked the second consecutive year the Timberwolves were eliminated at this stage.

The Thunder established dominance early on in the game, leading 26-9 after the first quarter and extending their advantage to 65-32 by halftime.

Minnesota’s offense struggled immensely, they committed 21 turnovers and shooting just 41.2% from the field thanks to the stifling defense displayed by the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Julius Randle led scores for Minnesota with 24 points and imminent star Antony Edwards added 19 points. Antony Edwards clearly struggling this playoffs to crack Thunder’s unbreakable defense.

Postgame, Minnesota head coach Chris Finch acknowledged the teams shortcomings, stating “we stated trying to force it all individual one on one which led to turnovers and disrupted the teams rhythm”

Anthony Edwards has seemingly accepted the defeat. “Can’t do nothing, but tip my hat to those guys. They came ready,” he admitted in his post-game comments. Edwards praised Oklahoma City’s energy and intensity throughout the series.

Thunder Guard Shai Gilgeous Alexander was crowned the Western conference finals MVP after averaging 27.7 points, 7.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists. he had a playoffs career high of 40 points and 10 assists.

“We’ve been preparing for this moment all year. We stayed locked in, trusted each other, and played Thunder basketball. This is just the beginning.” said the MVP postgame.

Thunder coach Mike Daigneault praised the maturity and focus of the young OKC group and emphasised on the importance of staying hungry and go for the ultimate goal- The Larry O’Brian.

“I’m proud of the maturity and focus this group has shown. From day one, they’ve bought into the culture. We’ve got a hungry group that believes in playing the right way. But we’re not satisfied — there’s still one more step.”

Thunder will face the winner of the Eastern Conference Finals between Pacers and the Knicks where Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers look to close the series as they face the Knicks in hostile grounds at Madison Square Garden.