After an impressive 57-win season, the Oklahoma City Thunder are gearing up for the playoffs, where they will be the top seed in the Western Conference. The team’s success has led to several individuals within the organization being recognized for their accomplishments, with various players potentially in the running for NBA awards that will be announced next month.
One of the most coveted awards in the NBA is the Most Valuable Player, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander being a long shot for the title but spending much of the season as the runner-up favorite. However, a late push by Luka Doncic has made the MVP race a three-man battle, with Nikola Jokic being the overwhelming favorite. Gilgeous-Alexander’s presence in the conversation is seen as a significant achievement for the young star.
Gilgeous-Alexander is also expected to secure a spot on the All-NBA First Team for the second consecutive year, solidifying his status as one of the top players in the league. While he might be the only Thunder player to make an All-NBA team this season, there is optimism that Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren could join the ranks in the future.
Another award that the Thunder players are eyeing is the Most Improved Player, with second-year player Jalen Williams being a top contender for the honor. Williams has emerged as a key player for the Thunder and has showcased his talents on both ends of the floor, making crucial plays in clutch moments.
In the Rookie of the Year race, Chet Holmgren is expected to finish as the runner-up behind Victor Wembanyama. Despite missing out on the top spot, Holmgren is likely to earn a spot on the All-Rookie First Team. His teammate Cason Wallace also has a shot at making the All-Rookie teams with his consistent performance throughout the season.
On the defensive end, Holmgren has been a standout player, recording impressive block and steal numbers throughout the season. While he may not win NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Holmgren has certainly made a case for being included in the NBA All-Defensive Teams. Additionally, Gilgeous-Alexander led the league in steals, further showcasing the Thunder’s defensive prowess.
As the team’s clutch player, Gilgeous-Alexander has delivered game-winning performances for the Thunder, earning him a spot as a top-three finalist for the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year award. Head coach Mark Daigneault is also expected to receive recognition for his leadership, having previously won the National Basketball Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year award.
Furthermore, Thunder GM Sam Presti is being lauded for his role in shaping the team into a legitimate contender within just two seasons. With a bright future ahead, the Thunder are poised to make a deep playoff run and sustain success for years to come. While official announcements for these awards are yet to be made, the collective effort of the Thunder team has set the stage for a season of accolades and recognition.
