The Oklahoma City Thunder look sharp to begin the 2025-26 season, opening with back-to-back double-overtime victories. Their first win came against the Houston Rockets, followed by a rematch of last year’s NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers. Although both games came down to the final possessions, the Thunder prevailed each time, even while short-handed.
In the season opener against the Rockets, Oklahoma City was without its No. 2 scorer, Jalen Williams, who remains sidelined with a hand injury. For their second outing, the Thunder were again without Williams, in addition to guards Cason Wallace and two-time champion Alex Caruso. Despite the absences, depth and late-game composure carried them through.
Earlier this week, Caruso spoke about Oklahoma City’s roster flexibility and developmental pipeline, putting the rest of the NBA firmly on notice. In a podcast appearance, he said, “I think we can get better. I think that’s scary for the rest of the league.”
Caruso’s confidence is not without reason. With a recent history of turning young prospects into high-level contributors, the Thunder continue to add talent at every position. Guard Ajay Mitchell has made early strides, averaging double figures in points after averaging just 6.5 in 36 appearances last season. Rookie Brooks Barnhizer impressed throughout the preseason and is expected to earn a consistent spot in the rotation.
Meanwhile, 2024 lottery pick Nikola Topic is projected to make his NBA debut later this season after missing all of last year due to injury. The Thunder are also expecting Williams to return soon, bolstering a unit that already looks poised to contend.
Already undefeated and defending a championship, Oklahoma City appears far from its ceiling. As Caruso suggested, the Thunder may only get stronger — a daunting thought for the rest of the league as they pursue back-to-back NBA titles.
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