In an electrifying game on Monday, the Minnesota Timberwolves achieved what might be the most improbable comeback in NBA history, clinching a 131-128 victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder. This feat becomes even more remarkable considering the circumstances under which it was accomplished.
The Timberwolves went on a stunning 16-0 run during the final 3:41 of regulation time, overcoming one of the largest deficits in recent memory. This comeback was executed on the road against the Thunder, arguably the best team in the league, making it an objectively special achievement. Such a comeback is estimated to be a 1-in-10,000 shot, especially under these extraordinary conditions.
What adds to the incredibility of this comeback is that it was achieved without Minnesota's best player, Anthony Edwards. Edwards was subbed out at the 3:41 mark, as coach Chris Finch, like many, assumed the game was out of reach. Despite this, Edwards made a crucial impact in overtime by blocking a potential game-winning shot from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, preserving Minnesota's one-point lead.
Following Edwards' decisive defense, Minnesota's Nickeil Alexander-Walker secured the win by making a pair of free throws. Gilgeous-Alexander's subsequent missed attempt at a game-tying three-pointer cemented one of the craziest comebacks ever witnessed in the NBA.
This victory could be a pivotal moment for the Timberwolves, who are battling to escape the play-in tournament and secure a top-six playoff seed. Had they lost, they would have fallen into a tie with the No. 10 seed Kings. Instead, they maintain their grip on the No. 7 seed, just a game behind the No. 6 Clippers.
In the tightly contested world of the NBA, every game counts. This particular win might be remembered as the beginning of a defining stretch for the Timberwolves if they manage to clinch a coveted playoff spot.
