Thunder Eyes Playoff Glory with Emerging Star Isaiah Joe

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Oklahoma City Thunder are gearing up for the 2025 NBA Playoffs, entering as the top seed in the Western Conference after achieving a league-best 68-14 regular season record. It marks the second consecutive year the Thunder has claimed the No. 1 seed, setting the stage for a serious run at the NBA Finals.

Leading the charge is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is projected to win his first MVP Award this season. Gilgeous-Alexander’s elite scoring ability, combined with the contributions from Jalen Williams and their defensive anchor, has made the Thunder a formidable contender this postseason.

However, playoff success often depends on more than just star players. The Thunder’s ability to advance will rely heavily on the contributions from their role players, especially during high-pressure moments. Isaiah Joe, who has cemented his position as the team’s designated sharpshooter since joining Oklahoma City in 2022, is poised to play a significant role in this year’s playoffs.

Joe has displayed exceptional shooting skills, averaging 41.2% from beyond the arc while recording 10.2 points per game during the regular season. His shooting precision has become even more apparent, as he averaged 11.6 points per game with a striking 44.3% shooting from three-point range since the NBA All-Star break.

“I’ve been preparing for this moment,” Joe said. “The playoffs are where you truly define yourself, and I’m ready to step up for the team.”

His shooting prowess was particularly noticeable in the final stretch of the regular season, where he scored 30-plus points in two of the last ten games, including a remarkable 10-of-14 performance from three against the Utah Jazz. If Joe can maintain his shooting form into the playoffs, his ability to create space for driving lanes and knock down timely shots could be pivotal for the Thunder’s success.

Aaron Wiggins, who has taken on the role of sixth man this season, adds another layer to Oklahoma City’s playoff strategy. With an average of 12.1 points per game and three outings exceeding 30 points, including a standout 41-point, 14-rebound game against the Sacramento Kings, Wiggins is capable of providing critical scoring off the bench.

“The playoffs are all about making the right plays,” Wiggins said. “We all know our roles, and I’m confident we can make a deep run.”

Kenrich Williams, while not guaranteed minutes in every game, brings versatility and veteran savviness to the Thunder. His ability to defend multiple positions and contribute offensively makes him a valuable asset in matchups against teams like the Lakers or the Clippers. Williams’ past contributions in high-stakes moments — such as last year against Dallas — illustrate his potential impact in the playoffs.

“We are focused on the little things that can swing games,” Williams said. “Every possession counts in the playoffs, and we’re all ready to go.”

The Thunder readies itself not just for a series of games, but for a shot at inking their legacy with a championship title. The success of Gilgeous-Alexander and the surrounding talent will be vital, but the performance of role players like Joe, Wiggins, and Williams could be what ultimately defines Oklahoma City’s playoff journey. Every moment counts, and the intensity of the playoffs presents a stage where heroes are made.