Shai Gilgeous-Alexander just made NBA Playoff history in Game 4 against the Timberwolves.

The Oklahoma City Thunder took a massive step toward their first NBA Finals appearance in over a decade with a thrilling 128-126 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night. In Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, the Thunder bounced back from a humiliating 42-point blowout in Game 2 to deliver one of the most exhilarating playoff performances of the season—led by none other than NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Now holding a commanding 3-1 series lead, the Thunder are just one win away from punching their ticket to the 2025 NBA Finals. But Monday’s win wasn’t just about the scoreboard—it was about Shai’s historic brilliance, Oklahoma City’s unshakable depth, and a clear signal that this young squad is ready to take the throne.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Delivers a Masterclass Performance

On the biggest stage of his career, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rose to the occasion with a legendary performance, pouring in 40 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists. He controlled the game from start to finish, showing why he’s not just the MVP in title, but in action.

What made the performance even more significant was the historic milestone Shai achieved. With his stat line, he became just the fourth player in NBA playoff history to record 40+ points, 5+ rebounds, and 10+ assists in a Western Conference Finals game.

This places Shai in elite company and adds another chapter to what has already been a season filled with accolades, including his first MVP award, All-NBA First Team honors, and now, playoff legend status.

“I don’t play for stats. I play to win. But I’m grateful for moments like this,” Shai said postgame. “This was a team win. We’re not done yet.”

Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren Provide Crucial Support

While Shai was the clear standout, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren ensured that the spotlight didn’t shine on him alone. Williams was spectacular with 34 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists, showing poise and confidence well beyond his years.

The second-year forward has blossomed into a reliable secondary scorer and a strong closer, proving once again why he’s one of the most underrated pieces of OKC’s rapid rise.

Meanwhile, Chet Holmgren, the rookie center, added 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 blocks, anchoring the defense and making life difficult for the Timberwolves inside. Holmgren’s ability to stretch the floor offensively while protecting the rim defensively has become a crucial asset in the Thunder’s playoff run.

“We believe in each other,” Williams said. “Every time we step on the court, we know we have enough to win—because we trust the work we’ve put in and the bond we’ve built.”

Thunder’s Depth Continues to Shine

It wasn’t just the big three of Shai, Williams, and Holmgren that propelled the Thunder to victory. Once again, Oklahoma City’s depth proved to be a difference-maker.

Players like Lu Dort and Isaiah Joe made timely contributions, with Dort providing elite perimeter defense against Minnesota’s star wings, and Joe hitting crucial shots to swing momentum.

Even bench players like Aaron Wiggins and Jaylin Williams delivered critical minutes that helped stabilize the Thunder during Minnesota’s late-game surges.

This depth, combined with the team’s unselfish ball movement and elite defensive rotations, has made OKC one of the most difficult teams to match up against in these playoffs.

A Gritty Battle From Start to Finish

Game 4 was a dogfight from the opening tip. The Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards, came out aggressive, trying to replicate their dominant Game 2 showing. Edwards finished with 38 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert added a combined 44 points and 20 rebounds.

Despite the Timberwolves’ relentless attack, the Thunder matched every punch with calm precision. Whether it was a Shai pull-up jumper, a Chet block at the rim, or a Jalen Williams three-pointer, Oklahoma City always had an answer.

The final minutes of the fourth quarter were especially tense. With under a minute left and the Thunder clinging to a two-point lead, Shai executed a perfect pick-and-roll with Holmgren, resulting in a foul and two clutch free throws.

Minnesota had a chance to tie or win the game in the final possession, but Dort’s defensive stop on Edwards sealed the Thunder’s biggest win of the season.

Historic Night for Oklahoma City

This victory holds historic weight for the Thunder franchise. Not only are they one win away from their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, but they are doing it with one of the youngest rosters in playoff history.

With players like Shai (25), Jalen Williams (23), and Chet Holmgren (22), this team has the potential to dominate the Western Conference for years to come. Their core is homegrown, their chemistry is organic, and their leadership—both on and off the court—is elite.

Game 5: Thunder Eye Finals Berth in OKC

All eyes now turn to Game 5 on Wednesday night in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder have a chance to close out the series on their home floor. The Paycom Center is expected to be electric, with fans ready to witness a potential finals berth.

Head coach Mark Daigneault knows the job isn’t finished.

“We’re proud of this win, but it’s just one step. We know Minnesota will come back swinging, and we have to be ready to match their energy.”

Expect another monster performance from Shai, another breakout moment from Jalen or Chet, and another reminder that this Thunder team is not a Cinderella story—they’re a dynasty in the making.

What This Means for the Western Conference

With the defending champion Denver Nuggets already eliminated and the Suns and Lakers watching from home, the Thunder now look like the team of the future—and the present.

Their rise is no fluke. This is a team built on smart drafting, strong culture, and a commitment to player development. And now, with one win standing between them and the NBA Finals, the Thunder have an opportunity to show the world that their time has arrived.

Final Thoughts: Shai’s MVP Season Reaches New Heights

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named MVP for his regular-season dominance, but his performance in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals might be his true defining moment. The history-making stat line, the leadership, the poise—it was all there.

He has already cemented himself as one of the league’s elite players. But if he can lead the Thunder to the Finals—and possibly to an NBA championship—his name will start to be mentioned alongside the greatest point guards in NBA history.

This is no longer just Oklahoma City’s dream. This is Shai’s moment—and he’s owning it.