The Oklahoma City Thunder Are Breaking the NBA

The Oklahoma City Thunder are accomplishing something that few have ever witnessed before. With an impressive record of 20–1, they are currently on a remarkable 12-game winning streak, and they appear to be an even stronger team than last season when they secured the NBA championship title. Led by last year’s MVP and the frontrunner for this year’s MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder seem to be on the verge of establishing the next great NBA dynasty.

A Young Team Playing Like Veterans

Most championship-winning teams typically depend on seasoned stars who gradually slow down or become too costly to retain. However, the Thunder offer a refreshing contrast. Shai is merely 27 years of age, star wing Jalen Williams is 24, and standout center Chet Holmgren is only 23. These players have yet to reach their primes, yet they are already exerting dominance over the league.

What is particularly astounding is that the Thunder have recently welcomed back their second star, Jalen Williams, from injury. He has participated in only two games this season, including a victory against the Trail Blazers on November 30th. Despite his absence, Oklahoma City has been overpowering opponents without one of their key players.

Winning the Smart Way: Draft Picks and Development

The Thunder have not constructed this formidable team through extravagant free-agent acquisitions. Instead, they have opted for a patient, long-term strategy. Over the years, they have amassed numerous draft picks, made shrewd trades, and cultivated young talent effectively.

This approach continues to yield dividends. This season, Oklahoma City possesses the unprotected draft pick from the Clippers, which is currently projected to land at 6th overall, along with a pick from Utah that is expected to be around 9th overall (assuming it does not end up in the top 8). This means the leading team in the NBA might potentially add another pair of exceptional young players in the upcoming summer.

Such a situation is extraordinary; typically, successful teams lose their draft picks. Yet, the Thunder seem to keep acquiring more.

A Team Built to Last for a Decade

Last season, Oklahoma City concluded with a remarkable 68–14 record, one of the best in NBA history. They powered through the playoffs to capture the franchise’s first championship since the days of the Seattle SuperSonics. Shai not only earned the MVP award but also claimed the Finals MVP title, cementing his status as one of the premier players in the sport.

Their roster is exceptionally deep. Shai and Jalen orchestrate a quick and selfless offensive strategy. Chet excels at rim protection and is capable of shooting three-pointers. Isaiah Hartenstein provides strength in the paint, while Cason Wallace and Alex Caruso effectively neutralize opposing teams’ top players.

Assuming they can maintain their health, the Thunder are not merely contenders for this season’s championship; they have the potential to dominate the NBA for years to come, and possibly even surpass Golden State’s record for the most wins in a single season, which stands at 73.

The Thunder are not just an exceptional team; they are redefining what an NBA dynasty can truly embody.