THE Oklahoma City Thunder (43-19) have been one of the best teams in the league this season. With just over a month remaining in the 2023-24 regular season, they are tied for first in the Western Conference standings.
The peripherals consider the Thunder as a serious title contender despite their young squad. They rank in the top five in net rating, offensive rating and defensive rating. Only the Boston Celtics are the other team that meets this criterion.
The Thunder also have the second-best point differential in the league at plus-7.6. Only the Celtics have a higher rating at plus-11.2.
One of the main reasons the Thunder’s rise to contender status happened so quickly is the play of the MVP candidate. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The 25-year-old has taken a major step forward this season after becoming one of the best players in the league last year.
In 61 games, Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 31.3 points on 54.6% shooting, 6.5 assists and 5.6 rebounds. He shot 37.7% on 3-of-3.3 attempts. He also averaged a league-leading 2.1 steals.
In an interview with ESPN Malika Andrews, Gilgeous-Alexander said winning a title in the next five years would be an achievement for him. In terms of OKC’s title chances this season, it seems like he’s a big believer in it.
“We are capable of anything,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.
The Thunder’s inexperience has cautioned people about their championship chances this season, citing the rule of thumb that a core first needs battle scars and playoff shortcomings before ultimately winning a title.
But considering the numbers the Thunder have posted this season, their successful campaign is unprecedented. If anyone can go against the grain, this year’s Thunder can do it.
