Thunder fans are absolutely wildin’ right now, and the numbers are backing them up with some serious hype for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Over half of the 1,145 fans who participated in a recent survey are throwing down big expectations, betting on a 61-65 win year. Seriously, folks are expecting another 60-plus win campaign, which would put OKC in some unbelievably rare air. We’re talking three consecutive 60-plus win seasons, a feat only accomplished by six other teams in NBA history.
Chasing History and Battling Injuries
Think about that for a second: only six teams ever. We’re talking about legends like the Milwaukee Bucks from 1970-72, the Boston Celtics who did it *twice* (1980-82 and 1984-86), the Showtime Lakers from 1985-88, Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls from 1995-98, the Utah Jazz from 1997-99, and most recently, the Golden State Warriors from 2015-17. That’s elite company. The Thunder already stacked up an insane 68-14 record in 2024-25, then followed it up with a 64-18 run last season. They’re a popular title pick, and fans are clearly ready for more even after falling short in the 2026 Western Conference Finals.
The Big Three and the Road Ahead
It’s no secret why fans are so confident. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams are still one of the most successful and decorated trios in the league, even after a summer of cost-cutting moves. Gilgeous-Alexander, a two-time MVP winner, has basically proven he’s a walking 60-win machine. He’s the constant, able to carry any roster iteration to a high win percentage. But here’s the kicker: injuries have been a real problem. Holmgren missed three months with a hip fracture in 2024-25. Williams played less than half of his games last year battling nagging wrist woes and hamstring strains. The squad lost some depth this summer, forcing a “recast among the complementary pieces.” If Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren, and Williams can mostly stay healthy , and that’s something that hasn’t happened consistently for over two years , then this trio is talented enough to be a regular-season win machine again.
This upcoming year, it’s all about health. If they can pull off another 60-win year, it would arguably be their most impressive one yet. That kind of performance should theoretically be enough to nab the first seed for the fourth consecutive year, which is another historic feat in itself.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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