The Minnesota Timberwolves are aiming to steal a game on the road as they visit the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs. Game 1 belonged to MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder, who delivered a strong all-around performance. On the other side, Anthony Edwards struggled, raising questions about his health and form. The biggest storyline heading into tonight’s Game 2: Will Edwards suit up?
Edwards is undoubtedly the engine that drives Minnesota’s offense and postseason hopes. Although he often starts slowly in a series, the 22-year-old has shown the ability to adjust to defensive schemes and erupt as the games progress. If the Timberwolves hope to even the series tonight, they’ll need Edwards to perform at his usual All-Star level. OKC knows that a focused, aggressive Edwards is capable of turning the tide in a playoff series.
Through 11 playoff games this season, Edwards is averaging 25.7 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 5.6 assists. His combination of athleticism and fearless play at the rim has made him one of the league’s most dynamic young stars. While his numbers are solid, he’ll need to raise his level to match Gilgeous-Alexander and help Minnesota snap its long-standing conference finals drought.
Is Anthony Edwards playing tonight?
The former No. 1 pick rolled his left ankle late in the second half of Game 1 but returned quickly and managed to finish the contest. Though the Timberwolves did not include him in their official injury report, his brief exit and visible discomfort drew concern from both fans and analysts. The team has stayed quiet about any lingering effects, fueling speculation about his availability.
Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves dribbles the ball to the basket around Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter at Paycom Center on February 24, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
The good news for Minnesota is that Edwards is expected to play tonight in Game 2 without any limitations. Barring any last-minute surprises, he’ll be in the starting lineup and ready to go at full speed. That’s a major relief for Timberwolves fans hoping for a bounce-back performance from their star guard in what could be a make-or-break game.
see also
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves: Predictions for Western Conference Finals of 2024-25 NBA playoffs
What to expect from today’s game?
Both teams come into tonight’s clash relatively healthy. Aside from Oklahoma City rookie Nikola Topić—who is recovering from left knee surgery—neither squad has any players listed on the official injury report. That means both coaches will have full rotations at their disposal, with no excuses standing between them and high-level playoff basketball.
In Game 1, Julius Randle played a pivotal role for Minnesota in the first half, finishing with 28 points and 8 rebounds, including an outstanding 83.3% shooting from beyond the arc. However, he faded in the second half, and the Wolves struggled to generate consistent offense. Edwards, meanwhile, had one of his quietest games of the postseason, contributing just 18 points, 9 boards, and 3 assists.
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On the Thunder’s side, the stars delivered. Gilgeous-Alexander reminded everyone why he’s this season’s MVP, posting 31 points, 9 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals in a dominant all-around showing. OKC also benefited from strong bench production and timely contributions from their role players. If they continue playing at this level, the Thunder may be well on their way to the NBA Finals.
