Naz Reid Steps Up in Timberwolves’ Narrow Win Over Thunder
On December 19, 2025, the Minnesota Timberwolves welcomed back star guard Anthony Edwards, but it was also Naz Reid who made his presence felt in a hard-fought 112-107 victory over the reigning NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder. The game, held at the Target Center, was a tense affair — a contest shaped by high expectations, palpable energy, and the relentless drive of both teams to claim Northwest Division dominance.
- Reid finished the game with 15 points, providing essential scoring off the bench and helping the Timberwolves weather offensive droughts, especially during the first half when both teams struggled from the field.
- His contributions came alongside Donte DiVincenzo, who also scored 15, and Rudy Gobert, whose 14 rebounds anchored the defense (ESPN, News4Jax).
- Edwards, returning from a three-game injury absence, led the team with 26 points and 12 rebounds, including a clutch three-pointer in the final minute to seal the win.
Reid’s Role: More Than Just Points
For much of the season, Naz Reid has been the kind of player every contender needs — steady, adaptable, and unfazed by the moment. In this particular game, his 2-pointer midway through the contest (highlighted by the NBA.com video feed) was emblematic of his ability to deliver when the offense stalls. With both teams shooting poorly in the first half — Minnesota at 34% and Oklahoma City at 39% — every basket was precious.
Reid’s scoring did not come in isolation. He moved without the ball, found soft spots in the Thunder’s defense, and converted key chances, keeping Minnesota within striking distance until Edwards could take over late. In a game where the Timberwolves struggled even from the free-throw line, making just 33 of 47 attempts, Reid’s reliability was vital.
Bench Strength and Game Dynamics
The Timberwolves’ win was a testament to their depth. Reid, often overshadowed by Minnesota’s stars, has carved out a niche as a dependable scorer and rebounder. He and DiVincenzo combined for 30 points, compensating for the team’s shooting woes and the early exit of coach Chris Finch, who was ejected after a heated exchange with officials.
Finch’s absence could have rattled a less resilient squad, but Minnesota steadied itself. The crowd, energized by the holiday break and the national broadcast, responded to every big moment — including Reid’s baskets, which often arrived at critical junctures when momentum threatened to swing to the Thunder.
The Big Picture: Timberwolves’ Aspirations and Reid’s Place
This victory was more than just another notch in the win column. It was a statement against a team that beat Minnesota in the Western Conference finals the previous spring. The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35 points, have been the benchmark in the division, entering the game with a league-best 25-3 record.
For Minnesota, now 18-10 and climbing the standings, the contributions of role players like Reid are the difference between being a playoff team and a genuine contender. His ability to step up when Edwards or Karl-Anthony Towns are off the floor gives the Timberwolves options — flexibility that’s invaluable in the grueling NBA regular season.
Looking ahead, Minnesota hosts Milwaukee next, while Oklahoma City faces Memphis. The Timberwolves’ mix of star power and supporting cast, with Reid at the forefront, suggests they are poised to challenge the league’s elite through the winter and beyond.
Based on the facts and game flow, Naz Reid’s steady performance against the Thunder highlights how crucial depth is for teams aiming to break through in the NBA. While stars often grab headlines, it’s players like Reid who quietly tilt the balance in close, competitive matchups — a reminder that basketball is won not just by superstars, but by those willing to do the hard work in the shadows.