As Oklahoma City prepares to play in the NBA finals, I can’t help but reminisce about the times when I played alongside James Harden, Kevin Durant, and Russell Westbrook. The synergy we had was something special, a potential dynasty in the making.
Current Thunder Dynamics
I was in Oklahoma City last month as the Thunder clinched their Western Conference semi-final against the Nuggets in Game 7. The game wasn’t even close. The Thunder outplayed them on both sides of the court.
Defensively, Thunder coach Mark Daigneault made a bold move by putting the 6ft 5in Alex Caruso on the 6ft 11in Nikola Jokić. Surprisingly, it worked. With Chet Holmgren or Isaiah Hartenstein providing help-side support, I watched a frustrated Jokić struggle to get to his spots. His usual tricks—flopping, drawing fouls—didn’t work. The Thunder defense moved in perfect sync.
Image of the Team
Etan Thomas (third left with headband) as part of the Thunder in March 2010. Photograph: Larry W Smith/NBAE/Getty Images
The Potential for a New Dynasty
Seeing the current team in action, I believe they have what it takes to establish a new era of success. The blend of youth and strategic gameplay is a formula for a potential dynasty. It’s a matter of maintaining focus and pushing the limits in every game, especially in the upcoming NBA finals.
Final Thoughts
The sense of pride is palpable as I watch this new generation of Thunder players. They may not have the same names as Durant, Westbrook, or Harden, but they have the heart and the hustle that could very well lead them to their own era of dominance in the NBA.
