In a thrilling Game 4, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander celebrated his playoff career-high with 40 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder outlasted the Minnesota Timberwolves, setting their sights on an NBA Finals trip for the first time since 2012.

With this nail-biting 128-126 victory, the Thunder now hold a commanding 3-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals, and they’re just one win away from a spot in the NBA Finals. Alongside Gilgeous-Alexander's stellar performance, the team’s strategy of intentionally fouling to keep Minnesota's three-point attempts at bay paid off, making their path to the Finals look as clear as Shai's jump shot—if only his opponents could see it that way.

Jalen Williams also showcased his offensive prowess by dropping 34 points, hitting 13 of his 24 attempts from the field, including a respectable 6 for 9 from beyond the arc. At this rate, local defenders might be filing complaints about harassment for having to guard both Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams, who seem intent on recreating a version of the game that resembles a shooting gallery more than basketball.

Chet Holmgren contributed significantly as well, adding 21 points while also pulling down seven rebounds and blocking three shots. His timely plays served as a reminder that Oklahoma City’s roster is not just a one-man show. Holmgren's presence on the court seemed to send a message: ‘I’m here for the fun and to ruin your afternoon.’

The Thunder’s defense deserves an honorable mention, as they effectively neutralized the Timberwolves' star players, limiting Anthony Edwards to just 16 points while holding Julius Randle to a mere five. One could argue that they were more locked down than a tourist's luggage in a crowded airport. At this stage, the Timberwolves might want to consider a defensive strategy that involves not allowing any points, as 23 turnovers leading to 22 points for the Thunder might be a sign that sometimes less really is more.

In a game that felt like a pendulum — swinging from one team's hope to another's despair — the Thunder executed their late-game strategy with an emphasis on fouls, ensuring that Minnesota’s last attempts to tie the game were about as successful as a cat on a tightrope. Gilgeous-Alexander sealed the Thunder’s victory with two free throws and found himself at the line with just 6.1 seconds remaining. 'It was great to know that my free throws could actually matter,' he quipped later, adding that he might start practicing those two shots more frequently in case they name a whole section of the game after him: the ‘Gilgeous-Alexander Twice Method.’

Oklahoma City is clear in their ambitions to return to the Finals for the first time in over a decade. With a history dating back to 2012, that elusive trophy seems more relevant than ever. The excitement is palpable—not just among the players but also amongst fans dreaming of days when they watched less competitive teams but significantly more embarrassing outfits.

Looking ahead, the Thunder now stand on the precipice of clinching the series in Game 5. Fans will undoubtedly provide a raucous home-court advantage. But one can’t help but wonder if the Timberwolves will use this opportunity to reminisce about their past victories and the impending future of having more turnovers than Christmas in a bakery. Such a thought could keep any hopeful fan awake at night.

As they prepare for Game 5, one can expect the Thunder’s strategy to be as refined as ever. After all, who doesn’t love a good gamble on their chances in the playoffs? If Oklahoma City continues to play like they did in Game 4, they have a significant opportunity to clinch the series. Choices must be made wisely.

In conclusion, after a game that tilted on the edge of drama and accomplishment, the Oklahoma City Thunder have been maximizing their performance while minimizing Minnesota’s offense. As history continues to unfold, one can only hope that they write a new chapter in their storied legacy—one that begins with a solid Game 5 victory and perhaps a selfie with that elusive NBA Finals trophy.

And to the Timberwolves, here’s hoping they can find their rhythm again. It’s a long journey from a 23-turnover game to Ultimate Basketball, but anything is possible. Just ask the Thunder.