Will the Oklahoma City Thunder Be Able to Pull It Together to Win the NBA Title in 2019?

Can the Oklahoma City Thunder succeed in their pursuit of the NBA championship title in 2019? This season offers them their best shot at it since the days when Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook played together. However, multiple factors, both positive and negative, must be evaluated to determine their chances.

Strengths of the Thunder's Roster

The Thunder's squad is comprised of several star players with high-level capabilities. The most noticeable addition this year is Paul George, who was a key candidate for the MVP most of the season despite his shoulder injury.

Paul George: A Top Contender for MVP

Paul George, with his speed and shooting prowess, has thinned the field of strong candidates for the MVP award. He is still a top contender for Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY), a nod to his impact on the defensive end. His versatility and ability to score from various positions make him an invaluable asset for the Thunder.

Russell Westbrook: The Key Playmaker and Morale Leader

Russell Westbrook, often overshadowed by Paul George, continues to be a dominant force despite his erratic shooting. His game has evolved, with him deferring plays to Paul George more often. This shift has helped the Thunder perform better as a unit when he’s not the primary scorer. Despite his past temper issues and recent technical fouls, Westbrook's leadership is crucial for the Thunder's success in the playoffs.

Supporting Cast: A Solid Foundation

The supporting cast of the Thunder is a mix of experienced and emerging players. Jerami Grant is having a career year, proving to be a reliable player at the power forward position. Steven Adams continues to dominate in the paint, especially with his rebounding abilities. Terrance Ferguson has stepped up from injury and is a valuable option from beyond the arc. Lastly, Dennis Schroeder provides a strong backup at the point guard position, though his reliability can be inconsistent.

Defensive Challenges and Shooting Consistency

While the Thunder have a solid set of players, their defensive performance has been a concern. Paul George leads the league in steals, but the Thunder have struggled defensively, losing their identity from the beginning of the season. Their three-point shooting is also inconsistent, with only a few players, like Paul George and Ferguson, able to contribute from long range.

The team's shooting, as a whole, requires significant improvement. If they can address their defensive weaknesses and improve their field goal percentage, the Thunder will be in a better position to succeed in the playoffs and potentially win the NBA title.

Conclusion

The Oklahoma City Thunder have a strong roster with Paul George and Russell Westbrook leading the charge. However, their defensive performance and shooting percentage must improve for them to have a realistic chance at winning the NBA championship in 2019. While their current form is promising, consistent play and a focused approach will be critical as they navigate the playoffs.