In a dazzling display of talent and skill, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder have solidified themselves as a force to be reckoned with after a remarkable 2023-24 season. With key additions made this summer, the Thunder are poised to make a serious run in the upcoming season.
Last season was nothing short of spectacular for OKC, as they racked up an impressive 57 wins and claimed the top seed in the Western Conference. At just 24 years of age on average, they became the youngest team to ever achieve such a feat. Despite a heartbreaking loss to Dallas in the playoffs, the Thunder made their mark on the league.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, averaging an impressive 30.1 points per game on 53.5% shooting, showcasing his evolution as a playmaker with 6.2 assists per game. With the emergence of Jalen Williams and rookie Chet Holmgren, OKC boasted a formidable trio of players, earning Coach of the Year honors for Mark Daigneault.
The acquisition of Hartenstein marked a significant milestone for OKC, as the biggest free agent addition in franchise history, providing much-needed interior presence and rebounding prowess. Coupled with the addition of Caruso, a defensive-minded guard with an improving 3-point shot, the Thunder bolstered their roster without sacrificing future draft assets, a testament to the savvy of GM Sam Presti.
As the spotlight shines on Holmgren, his unique skill set and defensive acumen have earned him the moniker of a “unicorn,” showcasing his versatility and potential to become an All-Star caliber player. With Hartenstein anchoring the frontcourt, Holmgren’s game is expected to flourish even further in the upcoming season.
Looking ahead, the Thunder find themselves in a position of strength, with a well-rounded roster and depth at every position. With Presti pulling the strings behind the scenes, OKC is primed to make a deep playoff run in 2024-25. The future is bright for this young and talented squad, as they aim to solidify their status as a legitimate contender in the league.
