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Randle’s Off Night Costs Timberwolves Crucial Game 2 Against Thunder

NBA access_alarms2025-05-23 17:07:44 visibility13 text_decrease title text_increase

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Table of Contents

Western Conference Finals Take Dramatic Turn

The Minnesota Timberwolves suffered a tough 118-103 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 of the 2025 Western Conference Finals, with Julius Randle's unexpected slump becoming the game's defining storyline. The All-Star forward's 6-point performance marked his worst playoff showing since joining Minnesota, leading to his fourth-quarter benching.

Game-Changing Third Quarter

Oklahoma City seized control with a 35-21 third-quarter surge. MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dominated with 38 points and 8 assists, while Jalen Williams recorded a 26-point double-double. Anthony Edwards' 32-point effort kept Minnesota competitive until Randle's struggles became too significant to overcome.

Julius Randle's Struggles Lead to Benching as Timberwolves Fall to Thunder in Game 2

Randle's Dramatic Performance Drop

After scoring 28 points in Game 1, Randle's Game 2 collapse surprised fans and analysts alike:
- 2/11 shooting from the field
- 4 costly turnovers
- Defensive lapses against Chet Holmgren
- First career playoff game with 0 fourth-quarter minutes

Coaching Decisions Under Scrutiny

Head Coach Chris Finch's choice to play Naz Reid over Randle in crunch time sparked debate. While defending Randle's importance to the team, Finch acknowledged needing "better execution from our veteran leaders." This decision highlights Minnesota's urgent need to adjust before Game 3 at home.

Series Implications

With the Thunder now holding a 2-0 lead, Minnesota faces:
- Historical odds: Only 7% of teams recover from 0-2 deficits in conference finals
- Pressure to contain OKC's trio of SGA, Williams, and Holmgren
- Critical need for Randle to rediscover his regular-season form (20.1 PPG)

Looking Ahead to Game 3

The Timberwolves' championship hopes now depend on solving three key challenges:
1. Reigniting Randle's offensive production
2. Containing Gilgeous-Alexander's paint penetration
3. Improving transition defense against OKC's fast breaks