The Oklahoma City Thunder are now the top contenders in the Western Conference, but their recent loss to the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Cup has revealed some weaknesses.
While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been performing exceptionally well and is considered an MVP candidate, the team’s lack of a true co-star is evident. Jalen Williams has shown promise but struggled in crucial moments, raising concerns about his ability to deliver consistently.
Williams’ performance in the NBA Cup elimination games highlighted his struggles, with subpar shooting percentages and difficulty creating quality shots against tough defenses. This has raised questions about the team’s overall ability to compete at the highest level.
Although Gilgeous-Alexander has also faced challenges, his experience and performance on big stages set him apart from Williams. The team’s reliance on individual performances rather than collective effort has exposed their need for additional support.
As the Thunder evaluate their roster and strategy moving forward, there are concerns about their lack of secondary shot creation and consistent performance. The team’s shooting woes and defensive vulnerabilities have raised doubts about their championship potential.
In light of these challenges, there is speculation about potential trade targets that could help bolster the team’s roster. Players like Herb Jones, Pascal Siakam, John Collins, Collin Sexton, Larry Nance, Cam Johnson, and Cam Thomas are among the suggested targets who could provide the Thunder with the needed skills and depth.
Ultimately, the Thunder’s future success hinges on their ability to make strategic moves and address their current shortcomings. The team’s potential is undeniable, but decisive action is needed to turn that potential into tangible success.