The OKC Thunder became the first team in the NBA this season to reach 60 wins, defeating the Sacramento Kings 121-105 on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the Golden 1 Center. This victory not only highlights the Thunder's dominance in the league but also sets the stage for what fans hope will translate into playoff success.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the frontrunner for the MVP award, led the charge with an impressive performance, scoring 32 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and dishing out five assists. His shooting was sharp, hitting 45.5% from the field, including three 3-pointers. Chet Holmgren also contributed significantly, adding 18 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing the depth of talent on the Thunder's roster as they improved to 60-12 on the season.
Despite the Thunder's recent success, skepticism looms among NBA fans regarding their playoff potential. Many observers took to social media to voice doubts about whether this young team could translate their regular-season success into postseason victories, particularly with the veteran-laden LA Lakers lurking as a possible first-round opponent. "Regular-season team," one user commented, while another added, "All this to lose in the second round of the upcoming playoffs."
However, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's individual achievements are hard to overlook. With his 32-point outing, he made history by becoming the fourth player in NBA history to score 20 or more points in 65 consecutive games, joining legends Wilt Chamberlain, Oscar Robertson, and Michael Jordan in this exclusive club. Gilgeous-Alexander's odds of winning the MVP award stand at -2000, reflecting widespread belief in his standout season.
The Thunder's path to this milestone has not been without challenges. They've faced numerous injuries throughout the season, with key players like Holmgren and Jalen Williams listed as questionable for the game against the Kings. Holmgren missed the previous game against the LA Clippers due to a left hip strain, while Williams has been sidelined for six games with a strained right hip. Despite these setbacks, the Thunder have maintained a strong performance, winning their last seven games and controlling the boards against the Kings, out-rebounding them 58-43.
The Thunder's shooting was also a highlight of the game. They shot a staggering 59% in the first half, leading to a comfortable 64-42 halftime advantage. However, the Kings made a push in the third quarter, outscoring the Thunder 39-25 and narrowing the gap to just six points at one point. Nevertheless, the Thunder regained their composure in the final quarter, outscoring the Kings 32-24 to secure the win.
In the context of the playoffs, the Thunder's primary goal remains clear: to secure an NBA championship. Last season, they topped the Western Conference but fell short in the conference semifinals. Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, "It's a testament to our hard work. There's a lot of things to be done. We haven't done anything. We haven't achieved half of our goals. We know there's a lot more work to be done and we'll do it."
Adding to the Thunder's playoff aspirations is the experience of new acquisitions like Alex Caruso, who brings championship experience, and Isaiah Hartenstein, a versatile big man. Both players are expected to play crucial roles in helping the younger players navigate the pressures of the postseason.
As the regular season winds down, the Thunder have 11 games remaining, and their playoff matchup is still uncertain. Potential first-round opponents include the LA Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns, and Dallas Mavericks. The landscape of the playoffs could change dramatically depending on how the remaining games unfold, particularly with teams like the Denver Nuggets and LA Lakers potentially dropping into play-in tournament spots.
Amidst the uncertainty, one thing is clear: the OKC Thunder are poised to make a significant impact in the playoffs, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge. His teammate Jalen Williams has publicly campaigned for him to win the MVP award, stating, "I think he’s the MVP. Obviously, I’m his teammate, so I’m very inclined to say that. From what I see, the amount of Michael Jordan comparisons and the accolades and all that, I think it would be a very big disservice to him if he’s not the MVP, just based on what he’s been able to accomplish this year."
As the Thunder gear up for the postseason, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this talented young team can turn their regular-season success into a championship run. With a blend of youth, talent, and experience, the Thunder are not just aiming for a successful playoff appearance; they are setting their sights on the ultimate prize.
