Thunder receive major praise in post-Finals NBA Power Rankings

The OKC Thunder proved to be a true up-and-coming threat during the 2023-24 campaign, as they rattled off 57 wins, clinched the top seed in the Western Conference standings, and advanced to their first semifinal series in nearly a decade.

Of course, in the end, their season fell short of accomplishing their ultimate goal of winning a championship, as they were bested in six games against the Dallas Mavericks during round two, but, heading into next year, they're already being looked at as a legitimate powerhouse among the league's elites.

Literal minutes after the Boston Celtics claimed their franchise's 18 NBA Finals victory Monday night, ESPN released their "way-too-early" power rankings for the 2024-25 season, and, while it should come as no surprise that the C's, Denver Nuggets, and Dallas Mavericks all respectively rounded out the top-three, placing in at fifth on the list are the Thunder.

Thunder place No. 5 in ESPN's 'way-too-early' 2024-25 power rankings

Citing their successes this past year despite their youthful age and lack of experience, coupled with their potential to make a major splash this summer, seasoned writer Tim MacMahon argues that Oklahoma City could be in line to make some serious noise once next season rolls around.

"With the Thunder becoming the youngest No. 1 seed in NBA history this season, there is now a lot of curiosity around the league to see how GM Sam Presti positions Oklahoma City to take the next steps. He has plenty of options as the Thunder are projected to have $33 million in salary cap space and have a historic collection of future first-round picks and swap rights."

- Tim MacMahon

He would go on to discuss ways in which the club could boost their odds of contending and bolster their rotation by pounding the proverbial drum of a possible Isaiah Hartenstein pursuit in free agency with their influx of spending power, something that HoopsHype's Michael Scotto recently revealed to be of actual interest for this Thunder front office.

Of course, before getting the opportunity to execute such a signing, Oklahoma City will have to officially make their decision on how they wish to utilize their 12 overall selection in next Wednesday's NBA Draft, where they'll have an opportunity "to strike" on any number of top-flight prospects.

All of this potential to add on new promising talents on top of already boasting a sensational roster consisting of the likes of rising studs Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, and, of course, superstar guard MVP runner-up Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should make it quite unsurprising that the Thunder are being seen in such a light ahead of next season.

Frankly, there's an argument to be made that they may be ranked a bit too low.