The NBA world was buzzing not long ago about the Oklahoma City Thunder potentially breaking the all-time wins record in a single season, sparking debates about their overwhelming dominance that could have led other title-contending teams to forfeit their ambitions.
This buzz feels recent, yet it was actually just a few weeks ago. Back then, even losing a second game—this time against a returning star—was viewed as a significant issue in Oklahoma City.
However, a surprising turn of events occurred: the Thunder went on to accumulate a series of losses, including a fourth and fifth, and even a sixth castigation by the lowly Charlotte Hornets—a game that was characterized as one of the most shocking blowout results seen in years.
Now, a team that once seemed unstoppable has floundered to a .500 record for the last month. They barely managed to avoid further embarrassment against a struggling Jazz team, needing a last-minute effort from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to secure the win.
Though victories count the same, not all wins feel equal. The Thunder’s recent performance has raised concerns about how a team that appeared historic could suddenly look so average. Jalen Williams remarked on this shift in expectations, emphasizing that the pressure from prior success inevitably leads to scrutiny during their human moments of weakness.
Possible NBA Cup Hangover?
This stretch may be compounded by physical and mental fatigue following their semifinal exit in the NBA Cup. Since then, the Thunder have played twelve times in just three weeks, with several back-to-back games, leading to questions about their stamina and execution in clutch situations.
Injury Challenges
On top of this, injuries to key players like Isaiah Hartenstein have severely impacted their performance, particularly in offensive rebounding, which has worsened in his absence. Jalen Williams, trying to regain his shooting rhythm after recovering from wrist surgery, has also struggled to find form, resulting in decreased effectiveness on offense.
The Competitive Edge
Despite being in a rough patch, the Thunder remain a formidable team capable of defeating any opponent. However, the recent losses highlight that they are not invulnerable and must rise to every team’s best effort. The journey has presented valuable lessons about resilience and managing expectations in a fiercely competitive environment.
