What happened: The Oklahoma City Thunder hold second place in the West at 8-2 following four straight wins. The Minnesota Timberwolves sit fourth in the conference table at 8-3 after securing their fourth consecutive victory. Both clubs continue to chase the conference-leading Lakers through the opening 11 games of the 2026-27 regular season.
Why it matters: The hot starts establish early separation at the top of the Western Conference table as teams position for home-court advantage. Oklahoma City sits within a half-game of the top spot while maintaining a four-game win streak. The tight grouping at the top underscores a competitive race where a single outcome can alter seeding.
By the numbers: Los Angeles Lakers: 9-2 (1st in West, W5 streak) | Oklahoma City Thunder: 8-2 (2nd in West, W4 streak) | Minnesota Timberwolves: 8-3 (4th in West, W4 streak)
What to watch: The Lakers look to protect their top seed as conference play continues through November. Oklahoma City and Minnesota aim to maintain momentum during their upcoming regular-season games.