Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson issues an apology to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and company after Oklahoma City Thunder’s 30-point Game 5 win

The Oklahoma City Thunder sent a strong message to the league with their commanding 124-94 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, clinching the Western Conference title in five games.

Their performance secured a trip to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012. Further, the win also made believers out of former doubters. One of them was NBA legend and Lakers icon Magic Johnson, who issued a public apology to the Thunder after their dominant display.

Oklahoma City Thunder earns Magic Johnson’s respect

Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson took to X to admit he had underestimated the Thunder and praised their rise to the NBA's biggest stage. “I want to apologize to the Oklahoma City Thunder for underestimating them and not thinking they were ready to compete for a Championship,” Johnson posted.

The apology came after OKC overwhelmed Minnesota in Game 5, securing a 30-point win.

Johnson didn’t stop there. He gave special credit to Thunder GM Sam Presti, writing, “Oklahoma City Thunder’s fan base needs to give their GM Sam Presti a standing ovation for putting together an amazing roster!” The franchise's patience and smart drafting paid off as they outplayed the experienced Timberwolves squad at every turn.

Oklahoma City set the tone early in Game 5, going on a 22-4 run and ending the first half with a 65-32 lead—their largest playoff halftime margin in franchise history, according to ESPN. They matched a playoff record with 14 steals, nine of which came before halftime. The Timberwolves, meanwhile, committed 21 turnovers and never looked locked in. Johnson pointed out their lack of urgency, posting, “The Minnesota Timberwolves did not put forth a desperation effort in tonight’s game.

They had bad body language and played like they were already on vacation.”

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was once again the heart of the Thunder’s success. The All-Star guard was named the 2025 Western Conference Finals MVP, claiming the Earvin Magic Johnson Trophy. He posted 34 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds in Game 5, and previously had a career-high 40-point performance in Game 4. Over the series, he averaged 31 points, five rebounds, and eight assists per game.In addition to Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren added 22 points, and Jalen Williams dropped 19. Former Laker Alex Caruso also received a shoutout from Johnson, “Congratulations former Laker and NBA champion Alex Caruso who now plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder and is headed to the NBA Finals!”Also Read: Minnesota Timberwolves vs Oklahoma City Thunder (05/28): Box score, player stats, game summary and moreThe Thunder will now face the winner of the Pacers-Knicks series. No matter the opponent, Oklahoma City is ready to take on any teams.