Image Source: AP
[Saba Sports News] On Monday, the Oklahoma City Thunder hosted their annual Media Day, where fans and reporters heard from star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, last year’s MVP runner-up.
Entering the season as a top contender for the award again, Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder are expected to be among the NBA’s elite in 2024-25.
A key offseason move was acquiring Alex Caruso from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Josh Giddey, who struggled to fit with the team.
After Tuesday’s practice, Gilgeous-Alexander humorously described going up against Caruso: “Exactly as it’s been in the past: annoying as hell. Pesky, picks you up full court, gets underneath you, and offensively, makes the right play.”
Caruso, known for his elite perimeter defense, addresses a key weakness the Thunder faced during last season’s playoff loss to the Mavericks. Meanwhile, Giddey’s lack of shooting hurt the team, and Caruso’s ability to space the floor should give Gilgeous-Alexander more room to operate. The Thunder also addressed their rebounding issues by signing Isaiah Hartenstein to support Chet Holmgren in the paint.
With a well-rounded roster, Oklahoma City looks primed to compete, though gaining more experience will be crucial. They open the season on October 24 against the Denver Nuggets.