3 Thunder players who exceeded expectations on the way to No. 1 seed

The expectation for this OKC Thunder squad was modest at best heading into the 2023-24 campaign. Of course, projections wound up being shattered as they jumped from the 10th seed of an incredibly challenging Western Conference last season to a historic top-seeded finish in this year's standings.

Undoubtedly, the performances of the team's players were instrumental in such a leap. However, it's crucial to acknowledge the significant role of the team's culture, characterized by a never-give-up attitude, and superb coaching schemes that prioritized pace and space, collectively paving the way for this reality during the regular season.

With the franchise’s talent-hunting prowess, Oklahoma City had an abundance of budding stars in their rotations. Despite their youth, the Thunder have positioned themselves to cultivate a winning culture brimming with superstar potential.

This promising future fills the franchise's faithful followers with hope and optimism. 

Thunder players who exceeded expectations during 2023-24 season

Their 57-25 record was a testament to the team’s ethos despite external expectations. The Thunder have consistently proven to be unfazed by any outside pressures, shattering ceilings at such an early time in their trajectory. 

However, some players had a jump higher than most. They were the ones that helped lift the Thunder to heights it had never reached in nearly 10 years.

Their performances proved that the team is composed of productive guys who can take any litmus test and pass it with flying colors.

With this in mind, there were a few players, in particular, that undoubtedly exceeded expectations for the Thunder in 2023-24.