Game Grades: OKC Thunder lose control in fourth quarter in loss to Timberwolves

Grading the OKC Thunder's top bench performer:

Aaron Wiggins, G, OKC Thunder: A-

Aaron Wiggins provided a spark to the Thunder and played critical minutes. Wiggins finished as only the third-highest-scoring bench player for the Thunder with eight points. 

In getting to eight points, Wiggins scored everything in the fourth quarter. He nailed a couple of 3-pointers from the left corner and a layup with about two minutes remaining.

The Thunder lost, but it was not at all due to Wiggins and his efforts. If Wiggins can get on the floor and play like this in more games, he could solidify himself in the rotation and maybe even make a run at a starting role.

Grading the best opponent:

Rudy Gobert, C, Minnesota Timberwolves: A

Rudy Gobert may not be the guy to lead Minnesota in scoring but he made another strong argument to his case for a fourth Defensive Player of the Year on Wednesday.

Gobert finished with four blocks against the Thunder and made Holmgren look like a clear second-best interior presence. Gobert got going early with a block on Jalen Williams’ dunk attempt early in the first quarter.

Oklahoma City also struggled to get rebounds against the former all-star. Gobert grabbed 16 rebounds, including six on the offensive glass to help Minnesota win.

While Gobert’s defense is often known for his blocks, his steal and transition dunk in the first quarter was one of his highlights.