SGA credits Caruso and Hartenstein’s ‘super cool’ nature

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been the talk of basketball since June. Thanks to a blockbuster trade that saw the franchise wave goodbye to the rising 21-year-old Josh Giddey for All-Defensive guard Alex Caruso, the Blue and Orange made major headlines.

Less than two weeks later, the Thunder moved into a different stratosphere. Fans, pundits, and even current and former players signaled Oklahoma City as a legitimate title contender when it landed star big man Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency.

Many agreed that these two moves had virtually zero potential red flags. And if there was one thing, it was merely the speculation over how both stars would fit their talent on a team already dense in young star firepower.

While the season has yet to tip-off, all early indicators point to two matches made in heaven, especially after the team’s best player comments on how seamless the pairing has been in training camp.

SGA sounds off on his new teammates

Incorporating new faces can be tricky for existing players, especially the best ones on the team. But the best player on the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, has already put to bed any questions out there concerning the dynamic between the team and its pair of banner offseason acquisitions.

In a recent interview, the superstar point guard shed light on Caruso and Hartenstein and maintained confidence in his and the team’s ability to get the best out of them. In a season where chemistry problems are perhaps the last thing the Thunder desire, they appear to be on the right track.

“Game-wise, they will fit in right away,” said SGA. “ Both guys are team-first guys. They obviously have special skill sets they bring to the table. The way we play and the way they play is a match made in heaven. Off the court, they’re super cool. [I] haven’t spent too much time with them; obviously, we just started. That’ll kick together here in this next week, and we will hang out a lot, do things together as a team, [and] get the camaraderie going as the season starts. It’ll be an easy transition; I can already tell.”

Playing on a team that has thrived with its culture, blending in a couple of new and unique personalities shouldn’t be an issue. Caruso is an NBA champion and has been routinely recognized as one of the most amicable teammates in the league. Hartenstein, meanwhile, showcased a strong relationship with his New York Knicks teammates on and off the court a season ago, especially with superstar guard Jalen Brunson.

As the Thunder embark on a promising season, they’ll rely on strong unity among players to take them over the top. Led by a 26-year-old point guard who has become the quintessential leader, all indicators point to a smooth season for the Blue and Orange.

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