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As the NBA season approaches, excitement builds for the Oklahoma City Thunder, the reigning champions. With less than a week until opening night, sportsbooks predict an astonishing Over/Under of 62.5 wins for the Thunder. This figure underscores the team’s dominance and places them among the elite in NBA history.
This preseason win total is the highest since the legendary Golden State Warriors, led by Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, who had a preseason forecast of 67.5 wins in the 2017-18 season. According to Sports Odds History, this marks the most ambitious projection since 1993, as the Thunder join a select group of just twelve teams since the 1993-94 season to have a preseason win total exceeding 60.
Historic context for the Thunder’s ambitious target
Historically, the odds favor teams with high preseason win projections. Of the eleven teams previously placed in this category, six emerged as NBA champions that same season. However, eight of those teams ultimately fell short of their predicted win totals.
This duality presents an intriguing narrative for the Thunder as they embark on their title defense.
Last season’s performance
Last season, the Thunder started with a projected win total of 57.5, trailing only the Boston Celtics. They not only surpassed this expectation but did so impressively, racking up an astonishing 68 wins and capturing the championship.
Their remarkable performance last season has set a high bar for the upcoming year.
Current odds and expectations for the upcoming season
As the season draws near, the Thunder stand out from the competition with their remarkable win total forecast.
The next closest team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, is projected at 55.5 wins, a full seven wins behind Oklahoma City. In the highly competitive Western Conference, the Thunder are anticipated to maintain their lead over the Houston Rockets, who sit at 54.5 wins.
Given their dominant position, it is no surprise that Oklahoma City is favored heavily to repeat their championship success. According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Thunder are listed as a +185 favorite to win the NBA title once more, a status not seen since the 2018-19 season with the Warriors. Furthermore, they are the frontrunners in the Western Conference with +125 odds, significantly ahead of the Denver Nuggets, who are at +500.
Looking ahead
The upcoming season will test the Thunder’s ability to meet and exceed these lofty expectations. Fans and analysts are eager to see if the team can sustain last year’s momentum and maintain their place at the top of the league. With a talented roster and a proven coaching staff, the Oklahoma City Thunder are set on a path that could lead them to another championship.
With their ambitious win total forecast and the weight of history behind them, the Thunder are not just aiming for a successful season; they are striving for greatness as they prepare to defend their title amidst high expectations and fierce competition.
