Currently sitting atop the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder have been a force to reckon with all season. Their overwhelming talent and elite play have pushed them well past the Boston Celtics as the best team in the NBA. Led by an MVP frontrunner and an incredible supporting cast, the Thunder have solidified themselves as this year’s championship favorite. Though nothing is guaranteed, it is hard to imagine a world where Oklahoma City is not hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy in June. Their ability and style of play are simply overwhelming and will prove too much for opposing teams to contain.
Taking point for the team is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. As one of the NBA’s premier players, the guard has averaged a league-leading 32 points per game and six assists in the regular season. His dominance on both sides of the ball has paved the way for the Thunder’s 68-14 record.
Gilgeous-Alexander will be the driving force in the team’s championship pursuit, as he is the lead initiator of the offense and a key contributor on defense. He consistently elevates those around him — such as fellow All-Star Jalen Williams and defensive anchor Chet Holmgren — especially late in games. The guard’s ability to effortlessly get to the rim and score, draw fouls or find an open teammate will be crucial in their playoff run. The foundation of Gilgeous-Alexander and the elite-level talent around him makes the Thunder the most well-rounded team in these playoffs.
While Oklahoma City possesses an immense collection of talent, they can win in multiple ways that set them apart from other teams. Throughout the regular season, the Thunder have consistently emerged victorious in late-game situations. The team finished 33-6 against teams with winning records in the regular season. Whether it is locking down defensively, scoring late or executing plays, the team possesses an innate ability to perform under pressure. Their command of all facets of the game makes the Thunder the clear favorite to win this year’s championship.
With no clear weaknesses or deficiencies, Oklahoma City will have no problem tearing through the Western Conference and NBA Finals. The team is battle tested and capable of beating any team in either conference. Likely to matchup against the Boston Celtics in the Finals, the Thunder will need to fire on all cylinders if they are to take down the defending champions. Though they are not as experienced as the Celtics, the Thunder have the roster advantage in both talent and efficiency. Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams are the perfect matchup for Celtic forwards Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The backcourt plays a physical style similar to Boston, but is also capable of dragging opponents out and putting them in isolation situations. Their overwhelming play will help lead the Thunder to its first championship in franchise history.
