NBASep 30
Thunder prioritize broad improvement over Spurs rematch
Oklahoma City is keeping its preparation centered on the full season after San Antonio ended its playoff run, with Chet Holmgren seeking growth and Jalen Williams focused on staying healthy.
By OddsListing wire desk
· 2 min read
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A familiar process after a painful exit
The Oklahoma City Thunder are not building their upcoming season around getting past San Antonio, even after the Spurs eliminated them in Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals. At Monday's media day, coach Mark Daigneault described an offseason evaluation that remains consistent regardless of whether Oklahoma City finishes with a championship or a playoff defeat. The Thunder examine the regular season and every playoff series, identifying what needs to change and what should stay. San Antonio offers important lessons, but Daigneault's emphasis is on preparing for a range of opponents, including teams that could emerge unexpectedly. Oklahoma City's goal is to make improvements that apply beyond a potential postseason rematch.
Holmgren looks past the emotion
Chet Holmgren is taking a similarly measured approach after a difficult matchup with Victor Wembanyama. The Thunder center scored eight points in the opening game of the conference finals and four in the deciding Game 7. Holmgren said his review process has not shifted substantially from the offseason following Oklahoma City's championship. Although the emotions were different, he emphasized moving beyond those feelings, assessing the film objectively and finding areas to improve.
Williams puts availability first
The Thunder also expect a healthy return from Jalen Williams, who was limited to 33 games last season by injuries. A hamstring strain significantly affected him against San Antonio in the playoffs. Rather than dwelling on that frustration, Williams is concentrating on preparing his body to stay available. His motivation is less about proving his ability to others than returning to the court, playing healthy and moving forward after an unusually long absence.
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