The Minnesota Timberwolves will be playing in their first Christmas game in franchise history next year. According to Dylan Buckingham of KFOR, the Wolves will play the Thunder in Oklahoma City:
Source: Kevin Durant will make his first return to OKC February 11th. Also, the Thunder host Minnesota on Christmas Day. #Thunderschedule
— Dylan Buckingham (@DylanBuckingham) August 11, 2016
While not a traditional matchup in large markets, this should be an entertaining game for the NBA.
The OKC Thunder will be fighting towards the playoffs all season. They will be led by a passionate and motivated Russell Westbrook. With Westbrook as the unquestioned leader of the team, fresh off an extension, the Thunder will be must-see TV next year.
The Wolves, meanwhile, will be attempting to take a step forward and potentially contend for the playoffs, as well. Armed with a bevy of young talent, Minny will be an entertaining team in its own right. Last year’s rookie of the year, Karl-Anthony Towns, is primed to have another spectacular year.
With Andrew Wiggins and Zach LaVine continuing to grow alongside Towns, the Wolves have arguably the best collection of young talent in the league. That group added another talented rookie in Kris Dunn this summer. With Tom Thibodeau coaching the team, the Wolves could surprise some people with their competitiveness.
Previous reports have indicated that the Christmas Day Games will also feature Warriors-Cavaliers and Celtics-Knicks. The Minnesota Timberwolves vs. the OKC Thunder appears to be the third of five matchups in the annual showcase.
