The Oklahoma City Thunder are having a phenomenal season, solidifying themselves as one of the top teams in the NBA.
With a league-best record of 54-12, they've dominated the Western Conference and clinched a playoff berth earlier than most teams.
Led by MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and rising star Chet Holmgren, the Thunder have combined elite defense with a high-powered offense, making them a formidable force as the postseason approaches.
In their most recent game, the Thunder defeated the defending champion Boston Celtics 118-112 at TD Garden, completing a season sweep of the Eastern Conference powerhouse.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable, scoring 34 points and showcasing his ability to take over games.
Chet Holmgren added 23 points and 15 rebounds, while the team's depth shone through with contributions from players like Cason Wallace and Isaiah Hartenstein.
The Thunder's relentless physicality and defensive intensity wore down the Celtics, outscoring them in the paint and dominating at the free-throw line.
This victory not only secured their playoff spot but also sent a strong message to the rest of the league.
Chandler Parson's doesn't care about Thunder reservation
Amid the Thunder's success, former NBA player Chandler Parsons shared his thoughts on a potential playoff matchup between OKC and the Golden State Warriors during an appearance on Run It Back on FanDuel TV.
Parsons dismissed concerns about the Thunder's youth and lack of postseason experience.
"OKC is like the Cavs," Parsons said. "I don't care that they're young or haven't done it in the postseason yet."
"OKC is like the Cavs. I don't care that they're young or haven't done it in the postseason yet."
Chandler Parsons on the Warriors' possible matchup mindset in the Playoffs
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— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 13, 2025
The idea behind the comment is that teams like the Warriors might want to face OKC rather than the Denver Nuggets or Los Angeles Lakers because of their lack of experience.
He still thinks it wouldn't matter. Parson believes that OKC can beat more experienced teams. The ex-NBA star mentioned that OKC has a deep squad and they shouldn't be taken lightly.
As the playoffs near, the Thunder are poised to make a deep run, and their mix of young stars and veteran contributors has fans and analysts alike believing in their championship potential.
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This story was originally published March 13, 2025 at 2:00 PM.