Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s streak remains minimal as Thunder secure victory

OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recorded 20 points and 10 assists, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 116-103 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday, marking their eighth consecutive win.

Gilgeous-Alexander narrowly extended his record streak of games with at least 20 points to 128. He entered the fourth quarter with only 10 points and returned to the game with 7:10 remaining after a brief rest.

He made a stepback shot against Anthony Edwards with 1:46 left and was fouled, bringing his total to 19 points. With the audience on their feet chanting “M-V-P!”, he successfully converted the free throw to maintain the streak and surpass Wilt Chamberlain’s previous record of 126.

Chet Holmgren contributed 21 points and nine rebounds, while Isaiah Joe added 20 points for the Thunder, who improved their record to a league-leading 53-15.

Julius Randle scored 32 points, and Edwards contributed 19 for the Timberwolves.

The Thunder capitalized on 22 turnovers by the Timberwolves while only committing seven themselves. Oklahoma City attempted 101 shots, compared to Minnesota’s 77.

Oklahoma City jumped out to a 9-0 advantage, keeping the Timberwolves scoreless for nearly three minutes at the start of the game.

Minnesota regrouped and held a 53-47 lead at halftime. Gilgeous-Alexander managed just four points on 2-for-10 shooting before the intermission.

Minnesota extended its lead to 68-59 midway through the third quarter, but the Thunder fought back. A 3-pointer by Jaylin Williams that bounced before going in gave Oklahoma City a 78-73 advantage, and they entered the fourth quarter leading 80-76.

Oklahoma City established control early in the final quarter. Jared McCain received a no-look, behind-the-back pass from Isaiah Hartenstein and sank a 3-pointer, extending Oklahoma City’s lead to 91-80. The duo connected once more, with Hartenstein delivering a two-handed pass that bounced between his legs and behind him. McCain’s 3-pointer increased the Thunder’s lead to 94-81.