NBA · Northwest · Est. 1967 · Paycom Center
Updated March 16, 2026
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has staked his claim as the best player in basketball this season, leading the Thunder to the league's best record with a breathtaking combination of scoring, defense, and clutch play. His mid-range game is virtually unstoppable, and his improved playmaking has elevated everyone around him. SGA is the clear MVP favorite heading into the final stretch.
Chet Holmgren has taken a massive leap in his second season, establishing himself as one of the most unique defensive players in the NBA while adding significant offensive polish. His shot-blocking, three-point shooting, and rim protection make him a unicorn on both ends. The Holmgren-SGA pairing is the most exciting young duo in basketball.
Oklahoma City's roster is staggeringly young and deep, with Jalen Williams, Lu Dort, and a cadre of draft picks supplementing their two stars. Sam Presti's patient rebuild has yielded the kind of roster construction other franchises dream about. The Thunder aren't just title contenders this year—they're positioned to be a force for the next decade.
With the best record in the NBA, the Thunder are on track to secure home-court advantage throughout the entire postseason. The Paycom Center has become one of the toughest places to play in the league, with the Oklahoma City crowd bringing deafening energy. For a young team with limited playoff experience, having that edge could be the difference in a tight series.