OKC Thunder Prepares for Playoffs with Record Wins and Injury Concerns

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Oklahoma City Thunder has set a new franchise record for wins in a single season, achieving 68 victories after their recent win against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. As they head into the playoffs, the team is looking to capitalize on this historic momentum.

This season marks a pivotal moment for the Thunder, who aspire to become the second-youngest team to win an NBA championship since the 1976 NBA-ABA merger. Despite their record-breaking performance, skepticism surrounded their title chances, even with an MVP frontrunner in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and home-court advantage through the NBA Finals.

The most immediate concern for the Thunder is determining their first-round playoff opponent, which hinges on results from the upcoming Play-In Tournament. Yet, the larger issue at hand pertains to the injury struggles that have plagued the team throughout the season.

Injuries have presented significant challenges for the Thunder this year, with nine core rotation members missing double-digit games. Five players suffered injuries that sidelined them for 25 or more games, casting doubts on the team’s stability heading into the high-stakes playoffs.

A fully healthy Oklahoma City roster is expected to maintain their high level of performance. However, any further injuries, particularly to star players, could significantly impact their championship aspirations. Chet Holmgren, a key player for the Thunder, has battled injuries this season. He missed three months due to a right iliac wing fracture.

Prior to his injury in November, Holmgren averaged 18.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 2.9 blocks over nine games. Since being cleared to return in February, his performance has varied, averaging 14.3 points and 7.7 rebounds, but showing inconsistency and a lack of offensive dominance.

Holmgren has acknowledged his struggles to regain his pre-injury form, stating, “I’m not fully myself yet,” emphasizing the need to find his rhythm on the court. While he concluded the regular season averaging 17.6 points and 6.4 rebounds over his last five games, his play often seemed hesitant, raising concerns about his readiness for the playoffs.

The Thunder’s playoff experience is another talking point, as many core players have limited postseason exposure. Veteran forward Marcus Morris Sr. noted that none of the squad’s main contributors, including Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, or Holmgren, have navigated the challenges of a playoff journey, which could potentially hinder their chances.

The uncertainty remains: Will this lack of postseason experience prove detrimental, or will it act as a motivating factor for the squad? As the playoffs approach, all eyes are on the Thunder to see if they can rise to the occasion and secure their place in NBA history.