Regardless of how talented a team is, repeating as NBA champions is never a simple task. However, the 2025-26 Oklahoma City Thunder may have what it takes.
In reality, there are many reasons why OKC can get the job done, but two, in particular, just may be enough to help the Thunder reach their full potential.
Their elite defense and depth will prove to be the difference this season.
Dominant defense and unmatched depth could be key to Thunder repeat
Many analysts and experts, such as ESPN's Kendrick Perkins, believe the Thunder can win the NBA Finals again this year. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a superstar, and Chet Holmgren is establishing himself as a legitimate All-Star candidate himself.
However, the Thunder's defense and depth set them apart from other contenders.
Oklahoma City comfortably leads the NBA in defensive rating, holding a 102.7 mark as of this story's writing.
The next closest? The Detroit Pistons at 109.6.
The Thunder's defensive unit is also first in steals, sixth in blocks, second in overall contested shots, second in contested three-point shots, and second in deflections.
They cause no shortage of havoc while ensuring that nothing comes easy for opposing offenses.
Meanwhile, the Thunder's depth is remarkable. Everyone talks about SGA and Holmgren, but the team's stars have received help without question.
In fact, OKC has six players averaging double-digit points. Ajay Mitchell, Isaiah Joe, Cason Wallace, Isaiah Hartenstein, Alex Caruso, and Aaron Wiggins are among the players who have stepped up alongside Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren.
What makes the Thunder's season even more incredible is the fact that Jalen Williams is currently out with an injury. Williams has already established himself as the Thunder's second-best player, yet Oklahoma City is still 16-1.
Unfortunately, injuries are a common occurrence throughout an NBA season.
The Thunder's roster is built to find success through adversity, something their success without Williams demonstrates. Williams' injury return -- whenever that ends up being -- will certainly help matters.
The Thunder's depth can succeed even with some injury trouble, though.
There are not many teams that can make a similar claim.
Anything can happen once the postseason begins. Upsets happen quite often, and the Thunder cannot afford to overlook any opponent.
With that being said, it is extremely difficult to doubt this Thunder squad. It goes without questhey will have a legitimate opportunity to repeat as NBA champions this year.