Oklahoma City Thunder crush short-handed Memphis Grizzlies for 11th straight win

In a remarkable performance on December 31, 2024, in Oklahoma City, USA, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a significant victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves, scoring 40 points. Despite trailing at halftime, the Thunder exhibited resilience and strong defensive play in the second half, dramatically increasing their scoring output after the break. This win marked their 12th consecutive victory, tying a franchise record since relocating to Oklahoma City. The game showcased the Thunder’s ability to execute their game plan effectively, forcing the Timberwolves to commit 24 turnovers, including an impressive total of 16 steals. This defensive pressure allowed the Thunder to transform turnovers into critical scoring opportunities, particularly in the second half where they outscored Minnesota with a 43-23 third-quarter performance. Gilgeous-Alexander’s significant contribution, alongside efforts from his teammates like Isaiah Hartenstein, was crucial in overturning the Timberwolves' earlier lead. On the other hand, the Timberwolves struggled to maintain their composure during the tense second half. Their momentum shifted following a dominant run by the Thunder, which ultimately left them unable to recover. Despite Anthony Edwards contributing 20 points and a valiant effort from other key players, their recent winning streak came to an abrupt halt. This match not only highlighted Oklahoma City's position as a competitive force in the league but also provided insights into the challenges faced by the Timberwolves, who had won three games in a row prior to this defeat. The Thunder's next matchup will be against the Los Angeles Clippers, while the Timberwolves are set to face the Boston Celtics.