The Thunder, according to the Vegas odds, are projected to win a total of 56 games. That would be one less win than they had last year. With the Offseason that the Thunder had by adding Alex Caruso and signing Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency, in addition, to retaining two key rotational pieces in Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins on team-friendly deals. Will the Thunder be able to go over or under their projected win totals?
There is a great case for both, however, there is a better chance for them to go over rather than under. Since 2020 the Thunder have improved their win total every year. From 2021-2022 they improved by two wins. Then from 2022-2023, they improved by an impressive 16 games. Finally, from 2023-2024 they improved by 17 wins and earned the number one seed. Even with the West being as deep as it is, we will look at reasons why Thunder fans should be hopeful, that the Thunder will go over their projected win total this year.
Will The Thunder go Over or Under Their Projected Win Totals
The Additions that the Thunder Made
Whenever a team adds new players, there will always be a learning phase that goes with it. However, the learning curve is more if you are trying to integrate star players. Fortunately for the Thunder, Caruso and Hartenstein are only role players. which will make it easier to integrate them with their team. Furthermore, if the Thunder can’t find a way for Caruso and Hartenstein to fit into the system. It will make it hard for the Thunder to go over the 56 wins. The Thunder are hopeful that the transition is seemingness and they can mesh with the Thunder sooner rather than later.
Caruso will likely have an easier time adjusting to the Thunder, than Hartenstein. Caruso is one of the better perimeter defenders in the NBA and will form a nice defensive duo with Lu Dort. In addition, he will make a top-five defensive unit even better this year, and there is an argument for them having the best defensive team. However, on the flip side, Hartenstein will improve the biggest weakness the Thunder had last year in rebounding. He will be able to take the pressure off Chet down low. His presence will also make it easier for other guys like Holmgren to grab rebounds as well.
The Developments of Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams
Another reason the Thunder have a good chance to go over their projected win totals is the continued development of Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. Last year, both players made great strides. Williams improved his scoring by five points, while also improving his efficiency. He has become a reliable 2nd option next to Shai. In addition, Holmgren in his rookie season, had one of the best rookie seasons by any player.
However, there are areas where both players can improve. For Holmgren, it would be to get stronger, get more efficient, and being able to take advantage of certain matchups. For Williams, it would be finding different ways to score, like getting to the free-throw line more often and becoming more consistent in the playoffs. If both players can make improvements from last year to this year. Then you add that to the player that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is, plus the new additions to the roster. This Thunder team could be dangerous next year, as long as they all can play together.
Having a Top five Offense and Defense
The Thunder once again, are projected to have another top-five offense and defense for next year. Usually, you have teams like the Indiana Pacers, or the Minnesota Timberwolves that rely too much on one side whether that be on offense or defense. However, the Thunder and the Boston Celtics were the only two teams last year that had a top-five offense and defense. With the Thunder having this, it will allow them to be able to win multiple ways. If they have a bad shooting night, they can win with defense. If it turns into a shootout, they can keep up with any team in the NBA. It makes them more diverse and a harder team to beat.
Last Word on Why The Thunder Will Go Over Their Projected Win Total
Finally, there are still multiple factors that can happen for them to go below their projected win total. For example, injuries could occur and derail their season, however, with everything that we discussed and broke down. There is a good chance the Thunder will at least hit 56 wins if not go over. Thunder fans should feel very optimistic about them hitting around 60 wins this year and the potential of how good this team can be.
