NBA Finals 2024: Are The Oklahoma City Thunder The Unlikely Favorites?

David

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Post on Jun 02, 2025

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NBA Finals 2024: Are the Oklahoma City Thunder the Unlikely Favorites?

The 2023-2024 NBA season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. While established powerhouses like the Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics remain contenders, a surprising dark horse has emerged from the Western Conference: the Oklahoma City Thunder. Their meteoric rise has many analysts wondering – are the Thunder the unlikely favorites to win the 2024 NBA Finals?

The Thunder's young core, led by the blossoming talents of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Josh Giddey, has exceeded all expectations. Their impressive regular season performance, fueled by electrifying offense and surprisingly strong defense, has positioned them as a legitimate threat. But is this youthful exuberance enough to carry them all the way to the championship?

The Case for the Thunder

Several factors contribute to the growing belief in Oklahoma City's potential for a Finals run:

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP-Caliber Season: SGA has solidified his status as a top-five NBA player, showcasing an all-around game that combines explosive scoring with exceptional playmaking. His leadership on and off the court is invaluable to the team's success.

• The Emergence of Chet Holmgren: After missing his rookie season due to injury, Holmgren's return has been nothing short of spectacular. His defensive prowess and unique offensive skillset provide a crucial balance to the Thunder's attack. His impact goes beyond the box score, significantly altering the game's flow.

• Josh Giddey's All-Around Excellence: Giddey's growth has been phenomenal. He's become a consistent triple-double threat, proving to be a highly versatile and intelligent player. His ability to control the tempo and make smart decisions under pressure is crucial for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.

• Deep and Talented Roster: Beyond their star trio, the Thunder boast a deep bench brimming with young talent ready to contribute. Players like Jalen Williams and Lu Dort provide valuable scoring and defensive intensity. This depth is a significant advantage in the grueling NBA playoffs.

Challenges Ahead

While the Thunder's potential is undeniable, several hurdles remain:

• Playoff Experience: While individually talented, the Thunder lack extensive playoff experience as a unit. Navigating the intensity and pressure of the postseason will be a crucial test.

• Western Conference Competition: The Western Conference is notoriously competitive. Teams like the Nuggets, Suns, and Clippers remain formidable opponents, posing significant challenges throughout the playoffs.

• Maintaining Consistency: The Thunder's success depends on maintaining their high level of play throughout the season and into the playoffs. Any significant slump could derail their championship aspirations.

The Verdict: Unlikely, But Not Impossible

Predicting the NBA Finals winner is always a daunting task. While the Oklahoma City Thunder's championship chances might seem unlikely to some, their young core's talent, coupled with their surprising depth and improved coaching, makes them a serious contender. Their potential for a deep playoff run and even a Finals appearance is certainly realistic. The 2024 NBA Finals could very well see the Thunder making a statement, proving that anything is possible in the unpredictable world of professional basketball.

What are your predictions for the Oklahoma City Thunder this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!