The Minnesota Timberwolves are currently down 2-1 to the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, after a 41-point blowout Game 3 win for Minnesota, the tide could be turning in the series. The Timberwolves' 143-101 win marked the most points the franchise has scored in its playoff history. Notably, in NBA history, there have been 31 playoff games decided by 40 or more points, and none of the losing teams have ever recovered to win that year's championship. Furthermore, only two teams have won that series. Undoubtedly, this stat is good news for the Timberwolves, and it could mean they are poised to win the series.
The Timberwolves found a blueprint in Game 3
In Game 3, the Timberwolves' approach on both ends of the court changed. Defensively, their high ball-pressure helped contain Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and forced 14 turnovers. Minnesota was also able to hold the Thunder to 31.8 percent from 3. Offensively, the Timberwolves moved the ball better, generating more open shots. This crucially helped them take care of the ball. Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle played like stars. While role players, Naz Reid, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Jaden McDaniels, and Terrence Shannon Jr. all stepped up.
When a team wins by 40-plus, it's tough to say that it's simply a one off fluky game. This either indicates dominance or, in this case, that one team has figured something out. Ultimately, if the Timberwolves' high-ball pressure style of defense can continue to bother OKC, while their offense can continue generating good looks, they'll have a great chance to win the series.
This stat doesn't guarantee a Wolves series win
This stat and their Game 3 are undoubtedly good signs for the T-Wolves. However, there are some notable caveats with this trend. Just last year, the Boston Celtics lost by 38 points in Game 4 of the NBA Finals before clinching the championship in the following game. In 2022, the Golden State Warriors lost by 39 points against the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 5 of the second round before closing out the series and eventually winning the championship.
So while teams haven't won it all after losing by 40, they have after losing by nearly 40. Additionally, as a 68-win team, OKC is perfectly equipped to change this historical trend. There's also the possibility that the Thunder become the third team to win a series after losing by 40 points but then lose in the Finals. Nevertheless, this trend, along with the Timberwolves' adjusted game plan and their regular-season success against OKC, gives Minnesota a good chance to win the series. Only time will tell if the Thunder can buck this historical trend.