A recent ranking of the league’s top NBA young core saw the Oklahoma City Thunder atop the list, boasting a plethora of talent to complement Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, setting this season’s expectations high from the jump.
Typically, a season won’t be successful when an inexperienced core is paired with an injured star. If the young core isn’t among the NBA’s best, that is. The Oklahoma City Thunder stand out from the rest of the NBA because of this. The Thunder rallied behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a wealth of young, talented players in the absence of their No. 2 overall choice, who missed the entire season due to a right foot injury.
However, it wasn’t the plan. Perhaps this explains why Oklahoma City was placed first on SBNation’s list of the best young NBA cores.
According to SB Nation;
“The Thunder were one of the NBA’s most welcome shocks last season. “With the former No. 2 overall pick set to make his debut this year, Oklahoma City has the chance to accelerate its rebuild and immediately become a factor in the Western Conference.”
It’s accurate to say that. Even without Holmgren, the Thunder performed admirably last season, so his addition makes them even more dangerous, especially behind Gilgeous-Alexander.
In fact, the Thunder’s collection of players, which they will build their team around, might have the potential to surpass Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs as the league’s most exceptional young core.
There are good reasons for SB Nation’s young core ranking, which makes for a season with quite high expectations.
Players like Vasilije Micic and Ousmane Dieng are expected to serve as the Thunder’s wildcard options, ready to be placed in any required position.
Jaylin Williams offers tenacity on the defensive end, helping the Thunder to round out its strengths.
All things considered, it makes for a strong core, one that, based on its past success. At very well might outperform Wembanyama and San Antonio next season. And the Thunder can only hope for success because it is aware of its young core.
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