Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals was a crucial one for both sides on Monday night as both teams had a ton at stake.
Of course, the Minnesota Timberwolves entered the contest looking to build off their 42-point victory in Game 3 and tie the series up before it shifts to Oklahoma City for Game 5 on Wednesday night.
On the other side, the Oklahoma City Thunder looked to bounce back after their blowout loss in Game 3 and grab a commanding 3-1 series lead with a victory, which was exactly what they were able to do.
It was a hard-fought game for both teams but the Thunder were able to pull out the 128-126 victory to take a 3-1 series lead.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
May 22, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; NBA commissioner is Adam Silver presents Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) with the Michael Jordan Trophy for winning the most valuable player award for the 2024-25 season before game two of the western conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center.
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way once again for the Thunder on Monday night as he recorded 40 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists.
Jalen Williams added 34 points, three rebounds and five assists of his own while Chet Holmgren finished the game with 21 points, seven rebounds and three blocks.
For Shai, he once again was the headline in Game 4, like he has been for much of the season for Oklahoma City, and he also made franchise history in the victory.
On Monday night, Shai became just the third player in Thunder history to record a 40-point game in the Western Conference Finals joining Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook.
This is elite company for Shai to join as Durant and Westbrook are two of the best players in Thunder history but Shai is quickly rising the ranks, especially after his MVP season.
Of course, Shai receives most of the headlines for Monday’s victory but it was another true team effort for the Thunder as they continue to show their incredible depth.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Dec 14, 2023; Sacramento, California, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) walks to the bench with forwards Chet Holmgren (7) and Jalen Williams (8) and guard Luguentz Dort (second from right) during the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
© Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Shai and the Thunder will now look to clinch the series on Wednesday night at home in Game 5 and secure their spot in the NBA Finals with a victory.