MINNEAPOLIS (Interstat) — The NBA’s top team visits the Northwest Division rival that handed it one of its only two losses this season, as the Oklahoma City Thunder face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night at Target Center. The Thunder (24-2), whose .923 winning percentage leads the league, arrive with a singular focus after having their 14-game win streak snapped in a 111-109 home loss to San Antonio on Dec. 13. They have not played since, providing a week of rest and preparation. Oklahoma City is powered by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who averages 32.8 points per game. He torched the Timberwolves for 40 points, six rebounds and six assists in a 113-105 victory on Nov. 26, the teams’ only previous meeting this season. In his last 10 games, Gilgeous-Alexander has scored at least 26 points nine times, including five games of 37 or more. The Timberwolves (17-10) have lost two of their last three, including a 116-110 home defeat to Memphis on Wednesday. Center Rudy Gobert recorded 16 points, 16 rebounds and four blocks in that loss, continuing his dominant interior play. Over his last 10 games, Gobert has nine double-doubles. Minnesota’s defense, anchored by Gobert, ranks among the league’s best but will be tested by Oklahoma City’s top-ranked offense. The Thunder lead the NBA in scoring margin, outscoring opponents by an average of 14.7 points. The matchup features a stark contrast in styles: Oklahoma City’s high-octane, perimeter-oriented attack against Minnesota’s physical, defense-first approach. Containing Gilgeous-Alexander and the efficient Thunder supporting cast, including Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, is the primary challenge for the Wolves. According to National Statistical’s ELO system, Oklahoma City is projected with a 74.30% probability to win. Following this game, the Timberwolves host Milwaukee on Sunday. The Thunder return home to face Memphis on Monday.