Thunder edge Timberwolves 113-105 as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scores 40 to extend win streak

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander returned from an illness to deliver a 40-point performance, guiding the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 113-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. The win keeps OKC unbeaten in the NBA Cup group stage and extends their current win streak to 10 games.

The 27-year-old guard overcame a pregame illness to post 40 points on efficient shooting, helping the Thunder pull away in the second half.

Gilgeous-Alexander has now scored at least 20 points in 91 consecutive games, the third-longest streak in NBA history, underscoring his consistency.

Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 31 points and eight rebounds, but the Timberwolves could not snap their losing skid, dropping it to three straight.

OKC’s performance marks one of the best starts in league history, with the team opening 18-1 in all competitions and leading West Group A after three NBA Cup games.

The NBA Cup, an in-season tournament, provides a trophy race while also counting toward regular-season standings.

Looking ahead, the Thunder host the Phoenix Suns on Saturday, while Minnesota travels to Boston to face the Celtics. In other Cup action, the Toronto Raptors secured a quarter-final berth with a 97-95 win over the Indiana Pacers. Reed Sheppard poured in a career-best 31 for the Houston Rockets in a 104-100 upset of the Golden State Warriors. The Detroit Pistons' attempt at a 14-game win streak fell short as the Boston Celtics escaped 117-114.

Key Takeaways

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 40-point gem shows the star's resilience and scoring versatility, even while ill.
• Gilgeous-Alexander's 91-game 20+ point streak is the third-longest in NBA history.
• OKC sits atop West Group A in the NBA Cup after three games and continues to flex depth and momentum.
• Minnesota drops a third straight game and faces a tough schedule ahead.
• Other Cup results highlight the tournament's growing impact on the season's landscape.

Analyst: Gilgeous-Alexander showed remarkable resilience by scoring 40 despite being ill. The supporting cast responded with timely plays, giving OKC a credible route to sustained success.

In summary, Oklahoma City capitalized on strong execution and timely contributions to extend their win streak and reinforce their status as a top team early in the season. Minnesota, hampered by a skid, will need to rediscover rhythm as the schedule intensifies. The NBA Cup continues to shape the season, blending trophy intrigue with regular-season implications.

Key takeaway: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 40-point performance under illness illustrates the Thunder's depth and resilience in the early season. BBC Sport