The Oklahoma City Thunder might just be the most underrated powerhouse in the NBA heading into the 2024-25 season. Despite being overlooked by many, the Thunder have methodically addressed all their weaknesses while building on their existing strengths. With the return of key players and some strategic offseason moves, it’s time to start considering the Thunder as NBA’s Most Unstoppable Team and legitimate favorites for the championship.
Did the Thunder Just Build the NBA’s Most Unstoppable Team?
The Thunder were already strong in the 2023-24 season, boasting the best record in the Western Conference (57-25) and the second-best in the entire league. They were ranked second in multiple advanced metrics like Net Rating (+7.4) and Adjusted Net Rating (+6.8), proving they weren’t just a regular-season team bullying weaker squads. In fact, their point differential against top-ten teams was third-best in the league. This wasn’t a team that got lucky—they earned every win.
Tackling Weaknesses Head-On
Now, the Thunder have managed to patch up their few weak spots without losing any of their strengths. In last year’s playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks, inexperience, lack of a dependable three-and-D player, and low physicality were their undoing.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren have since gotten their playoff baptism by fire, which is invaluable experience heading into this season. On top of that, they’ve added Alex Caruso, one of the NBA’s best perimeter defenders, to help address their defensive gaps. Caruso’s shooting (38.6% from beyond the arc over the last four years) also shores up a key weakness after Luguentz Dort’s lackluster playoff shooting.
Rebounding Woes Resolved
One of the most glaring issues for the Thunder last year was their rebounding, where they ranked near the bottom of the league. But the addition of Isaiah Hartenstein, a tenacious rebounder who ranks in the 97th percentile for offensive boards, is a massive upgrade. Pairing him with Holmgren guarantees rock-solid minutes at the center position, ensuring the Thunder have the physicality to compete at the highest level.
The Giddey Dilemma
Letting go of Josh Giddey may seem controversial, but it was a necessary move. While talented, Giddey struggled in crucial moments, particularly in the playoff series against Dallas, where he posted a net rating of -14.7. His departure, along with the acquisitions of Caruso and Hartenstein, makes the Thunder even deeper and better equipped for a championship run.
What About Boston?
Sure, the Boston Celtics are defending champions and still have their core intact. But they face uncertainties, especially with the injury-prone Kristaps Porzingis and aging Al Horford. The Thunder, by contrast, are young, healthy, and stacked. If you’re looking for a team with the depth, experience, and firepower to dominate the 2024-25 season, the Thunder are the squad to bet on.
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