The 2025 NBA Western Conference Finals continue with game two between the sixth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves and the first-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder today, May 22, at the Paycom Center. After a dominant 114-88 Thunder victory in game one, the Timberwolves aim to rebound and steal a game on the road, while OKC looks to maintain their momentum. Here’s a breakdown of the storylines, odds, betting picks, viewing details, injury reports, starting lineups, and how to bet on this exciting matchup.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Underdogs Hungry Like the Wolf

The Timberwolves entered the Western Conference Finals as underdogs but with a proven track record of defying expectations. They dispatched the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors in five games each, showcasing their elite defense anchored by Rudy Gobert and the offensive firepower of Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle. 

However, game one exposed vulnerabilities, as Minnesota struggled offensively, shooting just 29.4% from three (15-of-51) and committing 17 turnovers. The extended rest after their Warriors series may have contributed to their rustiness, but with a full day to regroup, Head Coach Chris Finch will likely emphasize ball security and pace control to counter Oklahoma City’s athleticism. Edwards, who was held to under 18 in game one, needs to rediscover his scoring touch against the Thunder’s suffocating perimeter defense led by Luguentz Dort and Alex Caruso. The Timberwolves’ depth, with players like Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo, gives them a chance to bounce back if they can limit turnovers and exploit their size advantage inside.

 

 

 

Oklahoma City Thunder: Little Less Talk And a Lot More Action

The Thunder, with a franchise-record 68 wins in the regular season, are proving why they’re the top seed and NBA championship favorites at -180. Their game one performance was a masterclass, outscoring Minnesota 70-40 in the second half behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s playmaking and a scorching 50% field goal percentage, including 52.4% from three. The MVP was officially named yesterday, and he should receive his trophy tonight in front of the Thunder faithful.

Oklahoma City’s defense, the best in the league at limiting paint points, clamped down on Edwards and forced turnovers that fueled their transition game. Despite a grueling seven-game series against Denver, the Thunder showed no signs of fatigue in the second half with Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren stepping up alongside the 2025 MVP.

Coach Mark Daigneault’s disciplined system and deep roster, including Alex Caruso’s defensive tenacity, make the Thunder a formidable force. With the MVP chatter officially over, the Thunder look to put the Timberwolves in a position they haven’t been in this postseason, down 0 - 2. Look for a little less talk and alot more action in game two.

 

 

 

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

Here are the latest odds for game two from major sportsbooks:

  • Spread: Thunder -7.5 (-108), Timberwolves +7.5 (-112) (FanDuel)
  • Money Line: Thunder -325, Timberwolves +260 (BetMGM)
  • Over/Under: 214.5 points (Over -105, Under -115) (Draftkings)

The spread remains consistent with game one at a  7.5-point line, reflecting the Thunder’s home dominance and Minnesota’s game one struggles. The total has dropped slightly from 218.5 to 214.5, likely due to the defensive intensity in game one and Minnesota’s low scoring output (88 points). Player prop bets include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at 31.5 points (Over -120, Under -110) and Anthony Edwards at 26.5 points (Over -115, Under -115).

 

 

 

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Best Bet: Timberwolves +7.5 (-108 on DraftKings Sportsbook)

Despite the game one blowout, the Timberwolves are a strong candidate to cover the +7.5 spread in game two. Minnesota’s ability to bounce back and make roster adjustments to counter a team’s productivity is the best in the Association. The Timberwolves’ turnover issues (17) are a correctable flaw, and their defense, which held the Lakers and Warriors below their averages, can challenge Oklahoma City’s offense.

Julius Randle’s physicality against Chet Holmgren could yield 22-25 points, while Edwards is due for a bounce-back game. Oklahoma City scored 54 points in the paint to Minnesota’s 20, and that is unlikely to remain the same in game two. 

The Timberwolves have been doubted throughout the playoffs, until it was too little, too late for opposing teams. They have not lost a game two in the 2025 playoffs, and that trend could continue. Instead of risking it on the moneyline, take the safer best bet of Minnesota to cover the +7.5 spread at DraftKings. New customers, make sure to take advantage of the promotional offer at the end of this article.

 

 

 

How To Watch Timberwolves vs. Thunder on ESPN Today

  • Date and Time: Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. ET
  • Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
  • TV: ESPN
  • Streaming: NBA League Pass, ESPN app
  • Radio: ESPN Radio, WFAN 660 AM/101.9 FM (local for Thunder), or check the NBA’s official schedule for local listings.

Game times and broadcasts are subject to change, so verify via the NBA’s official schedule or ESPN’s website.

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Injury Report & Starting Lineup

Injury Report

  • Timberwolves: No major injuries reported. 
  • Thunder: No major injuries reported.

Projected Starting Lineups

Key bench players for Minnesota include Naz Reid, Donte DiVincenzo, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, while Oklahoma City relies on Alex Caruso and their deep rotation.

 

 

 

How To Bet On Timberwolves vs. Thunder at DraftKings Sportsbook & Claim Your $150 Bonus

To bet on Timberwolves vs. Thunder and claim a $150 bonus at DraftKings Sportsbook, follow these steps:

  • Sign Up: Visit DraftKings Sportsbook and create a new account. No promo code is required for this offer.
  • Deposit: Make a minimum deposit of $10.
  • Place a Bet: Bet $5 or more on any Timberwolves vs. Thunder market (spread, moneyline, total, or player props).
  • Claim Bonus: Win or lose, you’ll receive six $25 bonus bets, totaling $150, instantly after your qualifying bet.
  • Explore Promotions: Check DraftKings’ “Promotions” tab for additional offers, such as boosted odds on Gilgeous-Alexander or Edwards props.

Eligibility: Must be 21+, located in a legal betting state, and a new DraftKings user. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable and expire in 14 days. Always bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

This game two matchup promises high-intensity basketball with Minnesota’s resilience facing Oklahoma City’s dominance. With the Timberwolves likely to adjust and keep the game close, betting the +7.5 spread offers value. Tune in to ESPN at 8:30 p.m. ET to catch the action and place your bets wisely at DraftKings to take advantage of their $150 bonus offer.

 

Bet Smart, Be Lucky - Iggy