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Thunder Favored for Title: Can They Seal the Deal?
15 Sep
Summary
- OKC Thunder are co-title favorites with the Spurs for 2026-27.
- Key players Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams lead the team.
- The team made cost-cutting moves but relies on internal development and health.
Entering the 2026-27 season, the Oklahoma City Thunder are positioned as co-title favorites, sharing that distinction with the San Antonio Spurs. The core trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams remains intact, fueling championship aspirations. The Thunder achieved a league-best 64-18 record last season but fell in the Western Conference Finals, with injuries playing a significant role.
This past offseason, OKC focused on cost-cutting measures to avoid luxury tax penalties, trading away longtime role players like Dort, Joe, and Wiggins. The team's strategy relies heavily on the internal development of its young talent and hopes for better health from key players throughout the grueling nine-month schedule.
Fans surveyed expect the Thunder to continue their regular-season dominance, projecting another 61-65 win season, which would mark their fourth consecutive year as the top seed. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is credited as a primary driver of their success, consistently leading the team to high win totals even amidst injuries.
The Thunder also drafted Mara, Stirtz, and Oweh in the 2026 NBA draft, with Mara and Stirtz showing particular promise. Manager Presti navigated a challenging offseason, balancing financial prudence with roster contention. A key negotiation point remains Wallace's contract extension before the upcoming deadline.
Coach Daigneault is recognized as a top NBA coach, adept at both player development and championship contention. The team's strong defense remains a crucial element. A significant move was re-signing Hartenstein to a three-year deal, securing another starter. The Spurs also remain a formidable opponent, having eliminated the Thunder in the 2026 Western Conference Finals.
Reflecting on the past, Russell Westbrook announced his retirement after an 18-season career, with his No. 0 jersey heavily favored for retirement by Thunder fans next season. In terms of future priorities, Wallace and Mitchell are seen as key players for contract extensions next summer.
