Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves behind a strong 118-103 Game 2 victory. Jaden McDaniels showed notable frustration after the loss.
The OKC Thunder superstar tied his highest scoring performance in the 2025 NBA Playoffs with an impressive 38-point outing. Gilgeous-Alexander shot an efficient 12-of-21 from the field, and 13-of-15 from the free throw line.
Naturally, it was that last part McDaniels took some issue with. The Timberwolves starter made his feelings heard loud and clear.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) in the fourth quarter during game two of the western conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (left) drives against Jaden McDaniels (right).
Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
McDaniels sends loud message to Gilgeous-Alexander
Everyone knows the narratives by now. Gilgeous-Alexander is a foul-baiter, free throw merchant, flopper, etc.
The legitimacy of those claims are certainly up for debate. However, what is clear is the Timberwolves have some belief there is truth to be found there.
In the fourth quarter, McDaniels offered a generous shove to Gilgeous-Alexander on a drive to the basket. The Timberwolves defender held nothing back on the play.
After the conclusion of Game 2, McDaniels was asked about the play at the postgame press conference. The Timberwolves forward chuckled a bit as he responded.
"I just wanted to foul him, for real. I wasn't even mad I just had fouls to use," McDaniels told reporters.
Thunder opponents have certainly not been shy about voicing their frustrations with the officiating during these NBA Playoffs. Aaron Gordon shared his displeasure amid the second-round matchup against the Denver Nuggets.
Even if one were to give in to the narratives about Gilgeous-Alexander's kind whistle from the officials, superstars have always been extended that courtesy previously. The precedent was not set by the reigning NBA MVP.
The Thunder have dominated this series so far in several levels that extend past the free throw line. The Timberwolves will surely have bigger concerns to tackle ahead of Game 3.