Photo: David Berding / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
The Oklahoma City Thunder are just one win away from the NBA Finals after a thrilling 128-126 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals on Monday (May 26). Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 40 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, nearly achieving a triple-double and showcasing why he was named the NBA MVP this season.
Gilgeous-Alexander's performance was crucial as the Thunder rebounded from a 42-point loss in Game 3. He was supported by Jalen Williams, who scored 34 points, and Chet Holmgren, who added 21 points and seven rebounds. The Thunder's defense played a key role, limiting Minnesota's Anthony Edwards to just 16 points by applying intense pressure and forcing turnovers.
The Timberwolves fought hard, with Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Donte DiVincenzo contributing 23 and 21 points off the bench, respectively. However, Minnesota struggled with turnovers, committing 23 compared to Oklahoma City's 10, which proved costly in the tight contest.
The Thunder will have the opportunity to close out the series at home on Wednesday (May 28) in Game 5. Teams leading 3-1 in a best-of-seven series have historically won 95.6% of the time, putting Oklahoma City in a strong position to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012.