In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, few teams have orchestrated as remarkable a transition from rebuilding to contention as the Oklahoma City Thunder. A series of strategic decisions, savvy trades, and astute player development have positioned them as a genuine title contender as of the 2024-25 season. At the heart of this resurgence is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, whose performances have cemented him as one of the league’s elite talents.
A Transformative Trade
In 2019, a seismic shift occurred when the Los Angeles Clippers acquired Paul George from the Oklahoma City Thunder. The trade sent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, five first-round picks, and four pick swaps to Oklahoma City in exchange for George. This deal, while primarily seen as a move to pair George with Kawhi Leonard, also laid the groundwork for the Thunder’s future. The Clippers secured Leonard in free agency the same year, hoping the duo would lead them to championship glory. However, their partnership did not achieve the anticipated success.
Reflecting on his journey, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander commented, "I had a great year here when I was here. Their front office made a trade that they thought was best for their team. Same with the Thunder." Over the last five years, Gilgeous-Alexander focused intently on his own development as well as the growth of the team. "I've tried to be the best basketball player I can be for the Oklahoma City Thunder. And I'd say it worked out in my favor," he said, noting the benefits of the Thunder's strategic approach.
Building Through Development and Draft Picks
Oklahoma City has capitalized on the haul of draft picks obtained, with selections extending from the Clippers through 2026. One standout from these investments is Jalen Williams, selected with the No. 12 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. These draft maneuvers have yielded a core capable of competing at the highest level, supported by a philosophy deeply rooted in player development and asset management.
Under this regime, Gilgeous-Alexander has blossomed into a bonafide star. Now averaging 26.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game in the current season, his consistent performance has been instrumental to the Thunder’s impressive start, marked by an unbeaten 6-0 record.
Recent Success and Strategic Moves
This season’s achievements include a 105-92 victory over the very team that initiated the trade resurgence, the Clippers, with Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 25 points. His past two appearances in NBA All-Star Games and earning a spot on the All-NBA First Team are testaments to his status among the league’s upper echelon of players.
In addition, the Thunder made headlines by trading Tre Mann to the Charlotte Hornets for Gordon Hayward in 2024, further bolstering their squad with experienced talent coupled with youth and potential.
A New Era for the Thunder
As of the 2024-25 season, the Thunder are particularly strong in an intensely competitive Western Conference. Led by Gilgeous-Alexander, their strategy has surpassed mere rebuilding, leading them to a realistic chance at contending for the NBA title. The combination of seasoned leadership and youthful exuberance, catalyzed by the transformative trade of 2019, has forged a path of retribution and ascension.
While the Clippers’ alliance of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George falls short of its championship objectives, George has moved on, signing a significant four-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. The Thunder, through their meticulous planning, have emerged as the ultimate beneficiaries of a trade that continues to yield dividends well into its future.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will watch eagerly to see if Oklahoma City can indeed fulfill its destiny and bring an NBA title back to a city that took decisive and daring measures to rebuild from its foundations.