Oklahoma City's Return to Greatness

The last time the Oklahoma City Thunder made the NBA finals was the 2011-12 season. They were led by the young trio of Kevin Durant, Russel Westbrook, and James Harden. They finished as the 2-seed in the Western Conference with a record of 47-19, and now Oklahoma hopes to run it back with their new trio.

As of Jan 3, 2024 the Oklahoma City Thunder stand as the 2-seed in the Western Conference, only 1- game back from first. Led by their big three of Chet Holgrem, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jalen Williams, they have what it takes to make a deep playoff run. Although it is Chet Holgrems' rookie season, he plays like a veteran. He averages 17 PPG, 7.6 RPG, and 2.7 BLK per game. According to Fanduel Sportsbook, Chet Holgrem is the betting

favorite for the Rookie Of The Year award at -250. Although Chet's presence has been nothing short of dominant, there isn't a more important player on the roster than Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Fanduel Sportsbook has Shai as the 3rd bet odds to win the MVP award at +400. Shai averages 31 PPG, 5.7 REB, and 6.4 AST. Shai has cemented himself as not only one of the best scorers in the league but one of the best players in general. Shai is the type of player whose games translate to playoff basketball. Shai's play style isn’t centered around foul baiting and side-step 3-pointers. Shai takes what the defense gives him and takes shots he feels comfortable attempting. If Shai and the Thunder can stay healthy, a finals run isn’t out of the picture.