With a place in the NBA Finals on the line, the Western Conference is set to deliver a seismic clash as the Oklahoma City Thunder look to close out the Minnesota Timberwolves on home turf. Holding a 3-1 series lead, the Thunder are one step away from their first Finals appearance since 2012, and they’ll be desperate to avoid letting the Timberwolves back into the contest.
Meanwhile, Minnesota faces the harsh reality of elimination after a narrow Game 4 defeat that swung momentum firmly in Oklahoma City’s favour. All eyes will be on stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Anthony Edwards as they prepare to battle in what promises to be an electric showdown.
Minnesota Timberwolves at Oklahoma City Thunder
Match Info
- NBA Western Conference Finals, Game 5
- Wednesday 28 May 2025, 20:30 EST / 01:30 BST (29 May)
- Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, USA
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves are in dangerous territory after falling to a tight 128-126 defeat in Game 4. For a team that swept through earlier playoff rounds with relative ease, facing elimination for the first time has exposed some cracks. Anthony Edwards, usually the heartbeat of Minnesota’s offence, struggled to assert himself consistently, while Julius Randle’s underwhelming performance further limited their scoring output. If the Timberwolves are to turn this series around, they must rediscover the explosiveness and composure that carried them through previous rounds. Crucially, Finch’s side needs more effective spacing and transition play to open up lanes for Edwards and Randle, otherwise their season may well come to an abrupt end.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City showed poise under pressure with a gritty Game 4 road win, and now have a golden chance to punch their Finals ticket in front of a raucous home crowd. Their dynamic trio—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren—were simply outstanding in Minneapolis, combining for an eye-watering 95 points. Gilgeous-Alexander, in particular, continues to solidify his status as one of the league’s elite closers, while Holmgren’s versatility on both ends adds a unique dimension to their play. Coach Mark Daigneault’s emphasis on staying present and embracing each challenge seems to have grounded this young but fearless roster. With confidence high and momentum on their side, OKC will be difficult to stop.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Oklahoma City Thunder to win
The Thunder have the edge in almost every department right now—momentum, confidence, and home advantage. Their core trio is peaking at the perfect time, while Minnesota appears to be fading when it matters most. Expect OKC to seize the opportunity and close out the series.
America Bet Score Prediction
Minnesota 112 – 118 Oklahoma City
Given Minnesota’s desperation and Oklahoma City’s form, this should be a competitive encounter. The Timberwolves will push hard, but OKC’s superior offensive cohesion and ability to close games should see them over the line by a narrow margin.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Oklahoma City Thunder to win
- Total points over 228.5
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander over 30.5 points
- Anthony Edwards over 24.5 points
- First quarter winner – Oklahoma City
- Jalen Williams over 18.5 points
- Game to be decided by 6 points or fewer
- Chet Holmgren to record a double-double
- Thunder to win and both teams score 110+
- Exact scoreline: Oklahoma City 118-112
