Even though they’re the second youngest team in the NBA, the Oklahoma City Thunder managed to rise above the challenges and become one of the top squads this season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the franchise’s best player, recently shared what makes them different and, potentially, deadly in the playoffs.
This season has been the best one for OKC since Kevin Durant last played for the franchise. The team is currently on top of the Western Conference with 52 wins and 22 losses, even besting the Nikola Jokic-led Denver Nuggets at this point in time. Moreover, the Thunder’s offense is rated third in the NBA and their defense is seventh among 30 teams.
The Thunder recently showed everyone that they’re the real deal by getting a close 113-112 win over a resilient New York Knicks team. In that game, Jalen Williams had a big night by dropping 33 points on 77 percent shooting. Gilgeous-Alexander made 19 points, including the game-winning shot for OKC, while Josh Giddey continued to impress by posting 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 assists.
New York, on the other hand, were led by Jalen Brunson’s 30 points during that game. Miles McBride added 19 points and budding big man Isaiah Hartenstein contributed 17 points and 12 rebounds. Even with the loss, though, the Knicks are still in fourth place in the Eastern Conference with a 44-30 record.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Shares Oklahoma City Thunder’s Mindset Against More Experienced Teams
After the game, Gilgeous-Alexander spoke to reporters and shared what makes the Thunder different from what most people expect from them. In a video posted by the team’s official account on X:
Uncommon mindset pic.twitter.com/q8Twbcg98b
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) April 1, 2024
As compared to Patrick Beverley’s recent comments about the Thunder being too young and inexperienced, SGA’s comments highlights their age as a strength. Furthermore, the OKC star added that by using the right intention in every game they play, the Thunder have been able to win this season. Of course, this can be seen in Gilgeous-Alexanders MVP-worthy numbers this season, which consists of 30.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and a league-leading 2.1 steals per game.
With only a few games left before the regular season ends, Oklahoma City is projected to finish strong as the team is headed toward the playoffs. From there, everyone will finally see if SGA and the Thunder’s lineup of young and talented stars can make far in the postseason.
For More Great Basketball Content
Follow me on Twitter at @BeatKit22 and follow us @HardwoodHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and professional sports, click here!
