As the NBA offseason winds down, the final pre-season rankings are making waves, and the Oklahoma City Thunder’s presence is causing quite a stir. With several Thunder players earning high marks, the spotlight is now on Jalen Williams and Alex Caruso. Notably, J-Dub Soars to Top 5 in HoopsHype’s latest list of the top 30 shooting guards, shaking up expectations and adding extra buzz to the Thunder’s offseason excitement.
NBA Rankings Heat Up: J-Dub Soars to Top 5, Caruso Breaks Into Elite Circle
Jalen Williams, affectionately known as J-Dub, has not just met but exceeded expectations. The 23-year-old is basking in his new top 5 spot—a ranking that’s making NBA insiders buzz. During a remarkable season, Williams averaged 19.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, with eye-popping shooting stats of 54% overall and 42.7% from beyond the arc. He’s joined an elite club, alongside Jamal Murray and CJ McCollum, with such impressive numbers.
“J-Dub is on the brink of greatness,” says HoopsHype.com. “His impressive midrange game and improving three-point accuracy make him a prime candidate for another leap in the 2024-25 season.” Williams is set to challenge the likes of Anthony Edwards, Devin Booker, Donovan Mitchell, and Jaylen Brown. With his star-studded backcourt mate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, known for his knack for drawing fouls, Williams’ journey to elite status seems all but guaranteed.
Meanwhile, Alex Caruso, the freshly minted Thunder guard, is also turning heads. Acquired in a high-profile trade from Chicago, Caruso has landed at No. 25 in the shooting guard rankings. At 30, Caruso is celebrated for his defensive prowess, leading the NBA in steal percentage over the past two seasons and ranking eighth in overall defensive rating last year. His tenacious defense and versatile play are expected to bolster the Thunder’s defensive efforts as they aim for a championship run.
“Caruso’s gritty, selfless style and elite defensive skills will be crucial for the Thunder,” notes HoopsHype.com. “His ability to disrupt top ball-handlers and contribute on both ends of the court could propel Oklahoma City toward serious title contention.”
In essence, the Thunder’s latest additions are not just fitting into the roster—they’re redefining it. With Williams and Caruso making waves, the upcoming season promises to be nothing short of exhilarating.
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