NBA Playoffs Western Conference Game 1 Finals: Minnesota Timberwolves vs OKC Thunder Preview - Starting Lineups, Injury Reports, Streaming Details, and More

The 2025 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Game 1 kicks off with a thrilling showdown between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Game 1 takes place on Tuesday, May 20, at 8:30 PM Eastern Time (7:30 PM Central Time) at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.

How to watch NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals Game 1: TV and streaming options

Fans have multiple ways to catch the action live:

- TV Broadcast: ESPN (Games 1, 2, 4, 5, 7) and ABC (Game 3)

- Streaming Services:

- DirecTV Stream (ESPN & ABC included)

- FuboTV (Free trial available)

- Sling TV (ESPN access with select packages)

These platforms offer free trials, making it easy for cord-cutters to watch without a long-term commitment.

NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals Game 1: Injury updates for both teams

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Both teams enter Game 1 in strong health, with minimal roster concerns:


Team

Player

Status



The Thunder’s absence of Topic, who has been sidelined since before the draft, does not affect their rotation significantly. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves have no injuries, giving them a full-strength lineup.

NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals Game 1: Series outlook and key players

The Thunder, the West’s No. 1 seed, are riding high after a dominant Game 7 win over the Denver Nuggets (125-93), led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ’s 35-point performance. Their strong defense and offensive firepower make them a tough opponent.

On the other side, the No. 6 seed Timberwolves have been a surprise force, sweeping the Golden State Warriors in five games. Anthony Edwards has been the driving force, and Minnesota aims for its first-ever NBA Finals appearance.

Key factors to watch:

- Thunder’s offensive efficiency – Can they maintain their high-scoring momentum?

- Timberwolves’ defense – Will their physical play disrupt OKC’s rhythm?

- Star performances – Edwards vs. Gilgeous-Alexander could decide the series.

NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals Game 1 details at a glance

- Date & Time: May 20, 2025, 8:30 PM ET (7:30 PM CT)

- Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City

- TV: ESPN

- Streaming: DirecTV Stream, FuboTV, Sling TV

- Injury Report: Only Topic (Thunder) out; Timberwolves at full strength

This series promises high-intensity basketball, with Game 1 setting the tone for a potential classic. Fans won’t want to miss the opening clash between two of the West’s best teams.