3 Thunder players that must see more action during final stretch of season

As things currently stand, the OKC Thunder hold the second-best record in the Western Conference standings at 42-19 and, with 21 games remaining on the regular season docket, have a legitimate chance to claim the top spot ahead of the 2024 playoffs.

However, despite these exciting factoids and their overall impressive on-court play, as Oklahoma City approaches their first postseason berth in four years it seems many odds-makers are still looking past the team when it comes to being considered a legitimate threat to take home the coveted Larry O'Brien Trophy.

In fact, on some occasions, Mark Daigneault's club has even been called out as a possible early-round exit by media pundits.

With the trade deadline already in the rearview and the available players on the free agency market lacking any true value for this squad, it's up to the Thunder's current crop of ballers to bring their A-game and prove the doubters wrong come playoff time, and these final two months of the regular season could be used as a period for players to sharpen their skills in preparation.

OKC Thunder players that need to see more action

Looking at Oklahoma City's talent pool, there are a number of players who stand out as being driving forces in their successes to this point, with headline names inluding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams.

On the flip side, however, there also seem to be a number of individuals who may be receiving relatively consistent playing time, though have underwhelmed to this point.

While star power is always a desired trait for a title hopeful, as the old saying goes a team is only as strong as its weakest link and in order for the Thunder to have a legitimate chance of embarking on a championship run, these aforementioned underwhelming players must find a way to step up their play.

This final stretch of the regular season could serve as a valuable time for these individuals to hone their crafts and gain more comfortability leading into the playoffs, and there are a few players, in particular, who should come across more action during this period.