As the NBA enjoys the 2026 All-Star break, teams are taking a breather before diving into the final stretch of the regular season. Leading the charge are the Oklahoma City Thunder, perched atop the standings with a 42-14 record. Yet, despite their impressive start, the Thunder have faced some bumps along the way, cooling off after a historic 24-1 beginning to go 18-13 since.
Injuries have been a thorn in their side, but with a bit of luck, the Thunder are hoping for a smoother ride in the second half. Let’s dive into five key takeaways from their season so far:
SGA's MVP Case
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is putting on a show. Following a season where he snagged MVP, Finals MVP, and a championship ring, he's back at it, looking to repeat the trifecta.
His performance has been nothing short of stellar, averaging 31.8 points on 55.4% shooting, alongside 6.4 assists and 4.4 rebounds. The question now is whether he'll become the second-ever unanimous MVP.
With numbers like these, it’s hard to argue against it.
OKC's League-Best Defense
Defense has been the Thunder's calling card. Built with defensive prowess at every level, they’ve consistently topped defensive stats.
While there have been some inconsistencies, particularly with perimeter defense, when the Thunder lock in, they’re nearly unstoppable. Their ability to generate turnovers and convert them into points is a testament to their championship DNA.
Williams' Health
A major concern moving forward is the health of Williams. Plagued by wrist surgeries and hamstring strains, his availability is crucial.
The Thunder can manage without him in the regular season, but come playoffs, his presence as a go-to scorer is vital. The hope is that his wrist issues are behind him, but the hamstring remains a tricky obstacle.
Holmgren's Breakout
Chet Holmgren is finally healthy and making waves, earning his first NBA All-Star nod. While his stats might not leap off the page, his impact is undeniable.
As the anchor of the league’s top defense, Holmgren changes the game’s dynamics, providing efficient scoring and altering shots with his presence. His style might not be flashy, but it’s effective and fits seamlessly into the Thunder’s system.
Mitchell's Emergence
Mitchell has taken a significant leap this season, transforming from a solid two-way player to a key component of the Thunder's success. Averaging 14.1 points on 48.7% shooting, his development has been crucial, especially in a team searching for additional scoring options.
His aggressive play has occasionally sidelined him, but the payoff in scoring depth is well worth it. As he gears up for his first true playoff run, Mitchell’s growth could be a game-changer.
As the Thunder prepare for the second half, these storylines will be pivotal in their quest to defend their title. If they can navigate injuries and maintain their defensive edge, a back-to-back championship could be within reach.