OKC Thunder finish second in NBA Podcast’s 2024-25 team rankings

The Oklahoma City Thunder received a lot of national attention after adding two experienced role players to a roster that won 57 games last season.

Mark Daigneault and his team received even more praise this week when Group Chat, a show on The Ringer’s podcast network, completed its NBA team rankings ahead of the 2024-25 season.

OKC took second place on the list, ahead of the Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks, which rounded out the podcast’s top five teams.

“I think the Thunder are clearly the favorite in the West,” said Rob Mahoney, one of the show’s three hosts. “Considering how difficult it is to repeat in the NBA right now and the rigors of playing back-to-back games, it wouldn’t surprise me in the least if the Thunder end up winning the NBA would win titles. Which is crazy.” What you can say about a team that is in their position and has as much youth as they have.”

Oklahoma City returns nearly its entire roster from last year’s playoff run while also adding former Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein and former Bulls wing Alex Caruso.

Hartenstein gives the team size and rebounding ability that wasn’t on the roster last season, while also being a solid playmaker who fits well in Daigneault’s system. Caruso, who won a championship as a role player with the Lakers, brings postseason experience, perimeter shooting and outstanding defense to the Thunder’s roster.

With the two additions mentioned above, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren and a host of other talented players, it’s no surprise that OKC is among the media. Favorites to win an NBA title this season.

The only team ranked above Oklahoma City in Group Chat’s rankings was the Boston Celtics, fresh off an NBA title and returning nearly the same roster.

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