8. Oklahoma City Thunder
Through the first few weeks of the season, the Oklahoma City Thunder have taken a step forward that many were anticipating them to take. Or at least that’s how it’s appeared so far. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is proving that he can make the team around him better which gives the indication that the Thunder could still have some upside heading into the thick of the season. Chet Holmgren has been as good as advertised for the team, but there is still one thing missing.
The Thunder, for as good of a start as they’ve gotten off to, is still missing that consistent second option. SGA is legit and we must still wait to see if he can survive as a No. 1 option in the league, but a second star would make all the difference for the Thunder. If OKC can land another star-level difference-maker, they could really make some noise in the Western Conference.
The Thunder may still be a year away from being a real contender in the West but there’s no question that they’re coming. And this start to the season is just a small glimpse.