The Oklahoma City Thunder reestablished themselves as serious contenders last season, finishing with a 57-25 record and claiming the top seed in the Western Conference. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had an MVP-level season, leading the Thunder to their best regular-season record since their 2016 run.
They swept the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round of the playoffs but were eliminated by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round. The Thunder, however, remain one of the youngest and most talented teams in the league, with a stockpile of draft picks and smart roster moves positioning them to take another step forward this season. They’ve added key pieces and are now one of the favorites to compete for the NBA title.
Here’s a breakdown of their projected starting lineup and key reserves for the 2024-25 season.
Point Guard (PG)
Starter: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Reserves: Cason Wallace, Adam Flagler, Nikola Topic
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had the best season of his career in 2023-24, firmly establishing himself as one of the top players in the league. Shai averaged 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game while shooting an efficient 53.5% from the field and 35.3% from three-point range.
He earned his first MVP votes and was a finalist for the award, as he led the Thunder to the No. 1 seed in the West. Shai’s ability to score at all three levels, combined with his playmaking and improved defense, makes him the focal point of this team. He will be the engine that drives Oklahoma City’s title aspirations.
Cason Wallace, the Thunder’s 2023 first-round pick, is a solid two-way guard who will provide defensive intensity and scoring off the bench. Adam Flagler and Nikola Topic, the latter of whom is currently out, round out the depth chart at point guard.
Shooting Guard (SG)
Starter: Jalen Williams
Reserves: Alex Caruso, Isaiah Joe, Ajay Mitchell
Jalen Williams took a huge leap in his second season, emerging as a rising star. Williams averaged 19.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists while shooting 54.0% from the field and an impressive 42.7% from three-point range. His versatility, ability to create his own shot, and defensive prowess have made him the perfect running mate alongside Shai. Williams is poised to continue his upward trajectory and will be a key piece for the Thunder in their quest for a title.
Alex Caruso , acquired from the Chicago Bulls, brings much-needed veteran experience and defensive tenacity. Caruso will play a crucial role off the bench, providing perimeter defense and leadership in key moments. Isaiah Joe is a sharpshooter who can stretch the floor, while Ajay Mitchell offers depth.
Small Forward (SF)
Starter: Luguentz Dort
Reserves: Aaron Wiggins, Dillon Jones, Alex Ducas
Luguentz Dort continues to be the Thunder’s primary defensive stopper. Dort averaged 10.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists last season while shooting 43.8% from the field and 39.4% from three-point range. His ability to guard the opposing team’s best perimeter players makes him invaluable to Oklahoma City’s defensive scheme. Dort’s improved shooting efficiency has made him more of a threat offensively, adding another layer to his game.
Aaron Wiggins is a versatile player who brings energy and solid play off the bench, while rookies Dillon Jones and Alex Ducas will compete for minutes in the rotation.
Power Forward (PF)
Starter: Chet Holmgren
Reserves: Kenrich Williams, Ousmane Dieng, Malevy Leons
Chet Holmgren had an excellent rookie season after missing his entire first year due to injury. He averaged 16.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game while shooting 53.0% from the field and 37.0% from three-point range. Holmgren’s unique combination of size, skill, and shot-blocking ability has made him a force on both ends of the court. His ability to stretch the floor while protecting the rim gives the Thunder an incredibly versatile frontcourt. Holmgren will be looking to build on his strong rookie campaign and help push the Thunder further in the playoffs.
Kenrich Williams is a do-it-all player who provides toughness, defense, and leadership off the bench. Ousmane Dieng offers potential as a versatile forward with size and skill, and Malevy Leons adds additional depth at power forward.
Center (C)
Starter: Isaiah Hartenstein
Reserves: Jaylin Williams, Alex Reese
Isaiah Hartenstein joins the Thunder as the much-needed starting center. Oklahoma City lacked a true big man last season, which forced Holmgren to play out of position at center. Hartenstein is a solid rim protector and rebounder who averaged 7.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game last season. His presence will allow Holmgren to move to his more natural power forward position, creating a more balanced frontcourt.
Jaylin Williams, who had a solid rookie season, will continue to develop as a backup center, providing rebounding, defense, and hustle plays. Alex Reese will also compete for minutes in the frontcourt.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are no longer a rebuilding team—they’re a legitimate contender for the NBA championship. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander coming off an MVP-caliber season, Jalen Williams emerging as a star, and Chet Holmgren showing flashes of brilliance in his rookie year, the Thunder have one of the most exciting young cores in the league. The addition of Isaiah Hartenstein fills a critical need at center, allowing Holmgren to play his natural position, which could unlock even more potential for this Thunder team.
The arrival of Alex Caruso adds championship experience and much-needed perimeter defense, giving Oklahoma City one of the deepest and most balanced rosters in the NBA. The Thunder still hold a treasure trove of draft picks, making them a candidate for another big move if the opportunity arises.
The Thunder are expected to be one of the top contenders in the Western Conference and have the potential to challenge for the NBA title. Health will be key, but if this team stays healthy and continues to build on last season’s success, they could go deep in the playoffs and possibly even capture the franchise’s first championship.
With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the helm, this could finally be Oklahoma City’s year to reach the NBA mountaintop.
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Related: Grade The Mock Trade: OKC Thunder Land Giannis Antetokounmpo For A Massive Package
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