Six games in, the Oklahoma City Thunder have emerged as one of the most exciting teams in the NBA this season. Their combination of elite defense and dynamic offense has propelled them to the top of the Western Conference, and they join Cleveland as the only two undefeated teams in the NBA.
A major factor in the Thunder’s success has been the stellar play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Averaging 26.5 points per game, SGA’s ability to score from anywhere on the court and create opportunities for his teammates has made him a perennial All-Star and a nightmare for opposing defenses. His partnership with Chet Holmgren (17.7 PPG) has proven to be a formidable duo. Holmgren’s length, athleticism and instincts have made him a defensive force, while his offensive versatility has added another dimension to the Thunder’s attack, his 9.8 rebounds and 3.3 blocked shots each night are proving to be the biggest assets OKC have on the defensive end of the floor.
Collectively, the Thunder’s defense has been equally impressive. As the lone team in the NBA that is holding opponents to less than a hundred points per game, the Thunder have been able to suffocate opposing offenses. Their ability to switch defensive assignments, contest shots, and force turnovers has been a key factor in their success. They lead the league in steals and blocks, and are sixth in the NBA in defensive rebounds per game.
Oklahoma City’s youth has been on display for the basketball world to see, but they aren’t playing like a team that’s trying to figure things out. The Thunder are taking the NBA by storm because they’re dominating opponents on both ends of the floor, playing like a group of veterans who have things figured out. Each night they step on the court they’re sending a message to the league that they’re not a flash in the pan type team. They’re going to be around for the long haul and the league had better get used to it.
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