We said it about the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021. We applauded the Denver Nuggets two years ago. The Boston Celtics had us talking last year.
Now, it’s the Oklahoma City Thunder in the spotlight, and this team looks poised to carve its own path to legendary status.
Yet, they understand the gravity of the task. “You’re not guaranteed anything in the league,” observed Alex Caruso, drenched in celebratory champagne. “Every year brings new challenges. Trades, injuries, unforeseen changes—anything can happen. Reaching the peak and winning is extraordinary. Expecting to do it every single year, that’s a bit naive.”
“Rest assured, we’ll show up day one next year ready to get better and ready to chase this again,” he vowed.
What sets Oklahoma City apart from other fleeting dynasties is their youth. Despite being one of the older players, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is just 26. The Thunder’s only key rotation player over 30 is Caruso, and he often jokes about being the 'team grandpa'. Meanwhile, young stars like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren remain on rookie contracts, poised for substantial extensions by 2026.
“We’ve got a lot of room to grow,” Gilgeous-Alexander stated. “That’s the beauty here. Many of us are still reaching our potential. We've got growth opportunities both individually and as a team. This is an exciting foundation.”
The NBA’s financial pressures, like tax aprons, loom, and the Thunder won’t be immune. They can retain their core for now, but free agents such as Isaiah Hartenstein and Lu Dort will attract interest. Yet, President Sam Presti’s arsenal of draft picks—11 first-round selections through 2030—won’t let the cupboard run dry.
The secret to sustaining this potential dynasty might be simple chemistry. These aren’t just teammates; they are a tight-knit group eager for mutual success.
“Our togetherness, both on and off the court, is what did it,” Gilgeous-Alexander enthused. “It was as if we were kids playing ball, just having fun.”
More rings would be a dream, but history shows the challenge ahead. The dynasty's route is laden with obstacles, but the Thunder's blend of youth, talent, and unity provides hope.
