Thunder vs. Timberwolves Game 3 Preview & Prediction (May 24, 2025)
The Thunder did their thing on home court. They’re ahead 2–0, and now on their way to Minnesota with a little less pressure. Newly named MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 38 in Game 2 and looked totally in control, and Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren filled in the rest with zero problems.
Minnesota is not in a good place. Anthony Edwards put up 32 in the loss, but it took him 26 shots to get there, and Julius Randle barely made a dent. Game 3’s in their building, and if they want this series to go the distance, they need to get their heads in the game.
Game Details
- Matchup: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
- Series Status: OKC leads 2-0
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 24, at 8:30 pm ET
- Location: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
- Broadcast: ABC and ESPNews
Prediction Breakdown
40.1%
59.9%
According to GamblingSite.com
Recent Performance
The Thunder are firing on all cylinders, and the Wolves haven’t come close to figuring out how to slow it down, let alone stop it.
Oklahoma City Thunder
- MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander controlled the game from the jump, putting up 38 and getting to his spots without forcing it—the Thunder won 118-103.
- Jalen Williams finished with 26 and 10, stayed super physical in the paint, and kept Minnesota’s wings working on both ends.
- Chet Holmgren scored 22, found space when the defense sagged, and made the Wolves pay every time they overcommitted.
Minnesota Timberwolves
- Anthony Edwards scored 32, but it took him a lot of shots to get there. He’ll need better looks and more help from his teammates to make a mark in the series.
- Julius Randle was a non-factor. Just six points and benched in the fourth. If he can’t take care of the ball or stay engaged defensively, he’s gonna keep losing minutes.
Key Matchups
The player dynamics that could determine the outcome of Game 3? Look below!
- SGA vs. Minnesota’s backcourt: They haven’t had a solution in the first two games, and that had to change if they want to stay in this.
- Edwards’ shot selection: He’s got the green light, but will he get quality chances? Because he’s been forcing hard ones.
- Randle’s decision-making: The turnovers are really ramping up, and it’s hurting Minnesota in transition. Randle either cleans it up or ends up off the floor again.
Betting Odds
Putting some money on Game 3? Look below for the latest odds and lines via BetMGM:
- Spread: Thunder -3.5
- Total Points (O/U): 217.5
- Moneyline: Thunder -150, Timberwolves +130
Best Bets
As for the best bets, here’s where we think the best value is for Game 3!
- Anthony Edwards Over 24.5 Points (-115) – He’ll get the volume at home. And if the shot falls at a better clip? This should hit.
- Julius Randle Over 3.5 Turnovers – Until he shows us otherwise, this trend looks like it will keep happening.
- Thunder -3.5 – OKC has covered both games so far, so there’s no reason to think that they’ll suddenly let up, even in Minneapolis.
Final Thoughts & Game 3 Prediction
Oklahoma City’s been better in every phase, full stop. If Minnesota has any chance of coming back, their stars have to play smarter ball, and the role guys have to show up.
The Thunder are playing like a well-oiled machine, and their defense has stopped Minnesota from producing.
The Timberwolves need more from Anthony Edwards and improved ball handling from Julius Randle if they want to change the series’ trajectory. Home-court advantage could give them a boost, but the Thunder’s current form? That is a pretty formidable challenge if you ask us!
Final Score Prediction: Thunder 114, Timberwolves 106
The Thunder pull ahead 3–0, led once again by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and taking full advantage of Minnesota’s sloppy possessions and uneven offense.
Note: As always, check the latest odds and lines before you bet, as they can and do change, and gamble responsibly.
