Could OKC Be The Best In The West?

By Addam Francisco

After our Thunder won their seventh straight game, and their sixth game winning by 10 or more points in the past seven games I believe it's safe to say that this team is the best it's been all season, even without the reigning MVP Kevin Durant. The new additions seem to be fitting in perfectly with the offense, especially Enes Kanter, not to mention Russell Westbrook putting up MVP-like numbers that place him at the very top of the NBA by averaging 26.1 points per game, 8 assists per game, and 6.4 rebounds per game as he has (in my opinion) led this Thunder team this season during the time he's been healthy.    On top of that, Serge Ibaka is putting up double-doubles like its nothing, and when healthy Durant putting up his usual 25 to 30 points per game. I also think the departure of back up point guard Reggie Jackson has helped strengthen the team chemistry which also helps the teams success.

This Thunder team is dangerous and at this point probably the best they've been since they've been in Oklahoma. Even though they went to the NBA Championship in 2012, that team wasn't as complete as this one. We are stacked, from the point guard to center position and we have a dangerous bench for a change, probably the most dangerous bench in the league with players like Dion Waiters, Anthony Morrow, D.J. Augustin, Nick Collison and surprise NBA rookie Mitch McGary. Not to mention we have Steven Adams that still isn't back from injury. The Thunder's starting five (without Durant) averages 75 points alone and about 50 from the bench. Once again, all of this with out Durant who averages 25.4 points per game. 

With only 25 games left, I look for us to continue this winning streak and finish the season 55-28 and pass San Antonio for that seven spot in the Western Conference. I'm aware that means we'd have to go 23-3 the remainder of this season but with what I see from these guys right now without KD, it's very feasible. Not to mention we have the easiest schedule in the league to finish off this season.