The Oklahoma City Thunder made an impressive leap this season, improving by 17 wins and making significant strides in their development. You can catch the full breakdown on the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast here.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: MVP Runner-Up
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had an outstanding season, finishing as the runner-up in MVP voting. Averaging 30 points, 5.5 rebounds, and over 6 assists per game, he solidified his place as a top-tier fantasy player. Despite a slight dip in free-throw percentage from last season, Shai remains a strong draft pick.
Jalen Williams: Impressive Development
Jalen Williams had a standout season, showcasing his versatility and potential. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute across the board makes him an intriguing player to watch. Williams averaged 19 points, 4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, and his scalability in the lineup is a key asset for the Thunder.
Chet Holmgren: Rookie of the Year Runner-Up
Chet Holmgren played all 82 games despite initial health concerns, proving his durability and impact. Averaging 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks, Holmgren was a force on both ends of the floor. His impressive rim protection and shooting efficiency make him a valuable fantasy asset, though taking him in the first round might be a bit premature.
Future Outlook and Recent Trade
The Thunder's future looks bright with a solid core and smart draft picks. The recent trade of Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso adds a new dynamic to the team. While Giddey moves to Chicago, Caruso's defensive prowess and experience will benefit the Thunder.
Key Players and Their Impact
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Consistent top performer, potential minor regression in steals and blocks.
Jalen Williams: Versatile player with room for growth, especially in minutes and three-point shooting.
Chet Holmgren: Strong rookie season, elite rim protector, potential for increased scoring.
Josh Giddey: Traded to Chicago, had a down season but still showed improvement in shooting.
For a detailed analysis of each player's season and what to expect moving forward, watch the full episode on YouTube here.
Josh Lloyd, host of Locked On Fantasy Basketball, provides in-depth analysis and insights into the world of fantasy basketball. Follow him on Twitter @RedRock_BBall and catch all the latest episodes on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms.