The Oklahoma City Thunder have taken a strong 2-0 lead in the Western Conference Finals after another similar performance in Game 2 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Just like in Game 1, both teams played a close and competitive first half. But after the break, the Thunder once again came out stronger, especially in the third quarter, which has become their most dominant period of the series.

Before the game began, Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander received his first Michael Jordan MVP Trophy from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. But once the match started, he quickly focused on helping his team win Game 2.

In the first half, both teams traded baskets in a lively atmosphere. But with under five minutes left in the second quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander scored OKC’s final 11 points before halftime. His 3-pointer just before the break gave the Thunder an 8-point lead going into the third quarter.

Minnesota started the third with a slight 13-10 advantage, cutting the Thunder’s lead to five. But then Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams helped OKC go on a huge 25-8 run to finish the quarter with a 93-71 lead. That run effectively sealed the game.

Through the first two games, the Thunder have outscored the Timberwolves 67-39 in the third quarter. Their strong defence and sharp shooting have been key. In Game 1, they had a 20-6 run to flip a small deficit into a big lead. In the series so far, OKC are averaging 33.5 points in the third quarter on 59.1% shooting from the field, 40% from three, and 81.8% from the free-throw line, with a +14 average scoring difference.

Before this series, Minnesota had been the stronger second-half team in the playoffs, averaging 29.1 points per half on good shooting numbers. But against the Thunder, they’ve dropped to just 19.5 points in the third quarter, shooting only 30.8% overall and a poor 15.8% from three, while committing four turnovers on average.

Coach Mark Daigneault’s smart tactics and Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership have played a huge role in the Thunder’s success. They now have the best net rating (+15.5) and the lowest turnover percentage (9.3%) in third quarters during the conference finals. Their defence has also been excellent. Minnesota are averaging 16.5 turnovers per game in this series, giving them a 16.3% turnover rate.

This strong and focused play has helped the Thunder stay in control with a determined mindset. With so many comebacks happening in the 2025 Playoffs, OKC’s mental strength has made a big difference.

If the Thunder can keep their calm and confidence in Game 3 on Saturday night in Minnesota, they’ll have a great chance to go 3-0 up in the series.