The Minnesota Timberwolves picked up an impressive 116-101 win over the OKC Thunder in wire-to-wire domination. One of the primary reasons behind this was the Timberwolves’ guard defenders excelling in stopping Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who made just six field goals on 21 attempts tonight (28.6 FG%). Despite this, Shai scored 24 points by going 11-11 from the line.
Timberwolves fans weren’t happy with Shai constantly finding himself at the free-throw line, letting the MVP frontrunner know who he is as Shai laughed them off.
Target Center crowd chants “free throw merchant” at Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the FT line pic.twitter.com/uRxuM0QL7W
— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) February 14, 2025
The Timberwolves fans enjoyed a great night as a whole. Naz Reid led the team with 27 points (11-18 FG), 13 rebounds, and seven assists while Anthony Edwards scored 23 points (5-18 FG) with eight rebounds and seven assists. Jaden McDaniels also scored 20, adding 21 points (9-18 FG) with six rebounds, and five assists.
Shai’s primary defensive assignment tonight was his cousin Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who had 14 points (5-11 FG) and six rebounds. Rookie Terrance Shannon Jr. had great moments off the bench and was also tasked with guarding Shai at times, ending the night with 13 points (4-10 FG) and six rebounds.
The Timberwolves want to be looked at as credible challengers to beat the league-leading OKC Thunder, so the fans naturally come charged up for a game against a team like OKC. Thankfully, everything that happened was in good humor and the fans got to go home happy with an impressive win in their home arena.
Gilgeous-Alexander has been on a tear this season, with tonight’s game proving how aggressive defenses can make the guard uncomfortable. He might not have such an inefficient game again against a fully healthy Timberwolves roster either, so the fans have to be satisfied with what they saw tonight.
Shai Doesn’t Care About Being Called A ‘Free Throw Merchant’
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been brought up as one of the few guards who exploit the NBA’s rules to maximize free throw opportunities. While it upsets fans, players who can do that have often thrived at the highest level.
As a result, Shai isn’t bothered by fans labeling him a free-throw merchant as long as it helps him improve outcomes for his franchise.
“None at all. In the past couple of years, I led the NBA in drives. So I think naturally, I’m going to get fouled on drives. Usually, you get fouled on drives more than jump shots. I think that’s just a natural part of the game… And then I learned a few tricks through the trade along my way. I’ve turned it into a skill a little bit. As far as what people say, I don’t really care. As long as it’s efficient offense and my team wins, I’ll get it done.”
Shai is averaging 32.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists this season. He’s second in the NBA in attempted free throws with 8.8 per game, trailing the downhill force of Giannis Antetokounmpo (10.7). Shai does lead the NBA in free throw makes with 7.9, so it’s fair to say he’s the most prolific player at the line this season.
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