The Oklahoma City Thunder are on the brink of setting multiple NBA records as the regular season winds down. However, the team remains singularly focused on achieving postseason success rather than celebrating its regular-season accomplishments.
Despite potentially becoming just the third team in NBA history to win 70 games, with a current requirement of seven wins out of their remaining games, the Thunder players are downplaying these milestones.
Oklahoma City Thunder Continue to Make NBA History
Oklahoma City has already achieved the best cross-conference record in NBA history with 28 wins against Eastern Conference teams. It is nearing the record for most double-digit victories in league history.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s standout guard, made it clear that the team’s priorities do not align with regular-season accolades.
“We don’t care not one bit about any of those records,” Gilgeous-Alexander told The Athletic’s Anthony Slater. “They mean something, but in the grand scheme, they don’t. We’re after one thing and one thing only. That’s what’s on our mind. Everything else we don’t care about.”
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Emphasizes Championship Goal
The team’s goal is to capture the NBA championship, a focus sharpened by historical precedents like the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors. That team set an NBA record with 73 wins during the regular season but fell short of claiming the championship, a scenario the Thunder are keen to avoid.
“We’re after one thing and one thing only,” reiterated Gilgeous-Alexander, underscoring the team’s championship aspirations above all else. The Thunder’s approach reflects a seasoned understanding that ultimate success in the NBA is measured by titles, not just wins.
As the playoffs approach, the Thunder continue to prioritize their long-term goal over the allure of immediate records, setting the stage for what they hope will be a deep and successful postseason run.
