The Minnesota Timberwolves lost Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals 118-103. While this is undoubtedly a tough loss for Minnesota, and the Oklahoma City Thunder look incredible, the Wolves aren't dead yet. Nickeil Alexander-Walker was a clear bright spot in Game 2. Alexander-Walker poured in 17 points, two assists, and two rebounds on 5-8 shooting from the field and 3-4 from beyond the arc off the bench.
Additionally, and perhaps more importantly, he also played some intense defense, especially down the stretch. The Timberwolves opted to close with Alexander-Walker as they attempted to fight back. Let's dive into why Alexander-Walker's two-way impact gives the Timberwolves a chance to come back in this series.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker's impact is undeniable
Alexander-Walker played all but nine seconds in the fourth quarter. Minnesota outscored OKC 32-25 in the final quarter. However, it was too late as the Wolves were down 22 heading into the quarter. Nevertheless, Alexander-Walker's impact was on full display, and he could have a bigger role for the rest of the series. Notably, he played 25 minutes in the game, with nearly half of his minutes coming in the fourth quarter, where he scored 11 of his 17 points. Moreover, NAW posted a +6.2 net on/off difference in Game 2. His impact highlights the Timberwolves' depth, which could help them fight back in this series.
The Timberwolves' closing lineup of Alexander-Walker, Mike Conley, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, and Naz Reid could be utilized more going forward. This group gives Minnesota an ideal combination of length, athleticism, and spacing to better match up with the Thunder. In just seven minutes this playoffs, this lineup has a +14.8 net rating.
The pairing of Alexander-Walker and McDaniels is especially impactful. For the playoffs, Alexander-Walker and McDaniels have a +8.9 net rating with a 100.5 defensive rating. OKC's defense is highly disruptive and versatile, so it's logical for Minnesota to counter with two of their most disruptive and versatile defenders. Alexander-Walker's on-ball defense, ability to force turnovers, and versatility make him highly impactful. He crucially gives the Timberwolves another option to throw at Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Impressively, Alexander-Walker has held his cousin to 37.5 percent from the field.
The Thunder have made it impossible for the Timberwolves to generate consistent offense, and they have forced turnovers. However, despite having a talented defense, the Timberwolves have failed to provide the same defensive pressure on the Thunder thus far. Ultimately, the duo of Alexander-Walker and McDaniels, playing a bigger role, gives the Timberwolves a blueprint to contain OKC's offense and claw back in the series.
Offensively, Alexander-Walker provides the Timberwolves with quality spot-up shooting and connective playmaking. With Alexander-Walker's athleticism, he is also a solid finisher at the rim, which he showcased in Game 2. If NAW can continue hitting his outside shots at a solid clip and provide rim pressure, it could change the series for the Timberwolves. Overall, Alexander-Walker's contributions and particularly utilizing him in more lineups with McDaniels could greatly benefit the Timberwolves.