Anthony Edwards Ignites Timberwolves-Thunder NBA Cup

Minnesota and Oklahoma City have stamped themselves as the favorites in a tight West Group A race after opening-night blowouts — Minnesota’s 40-point dismantling led by Anthony Edwards and OKC’s 31-point win created an early gap over the rest. Their Nov. 26 meeting in Oklahoma City now looks like the group’s deciding moment, with point differential and the best second-place spot carrying real playoff weight. Merlin sees a classic clash of star fire and young depth: Minnesota’s elite scoring versus OKC’s balanced attack. The Bucks’ hot start and Toronto’s surprise in the East add pressure across the tournament—expect head-to-heads and point margins, not just wins, to shape who advances.