For the first time since losing to LeBron James and the Miami Heat in the 2012 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder are back. It feels like Sam Presti has been building for this season ever since the “Big 3” of that 2012 team left. The years since have been challenging at times, but it looks like it’s all going to be worth it as the Thunder have gotten to the biggest stage in basketball with a team that’s so young.
OKC has looked dominating in this postseason, but a part of me feels like they could still hit a new gear. The Thunder have improved in every series to get to this point, and their 12-4 record in this postseason to win the Western Conference is daunting.
Their odds certainly reflect that dominance, as they are now huge -575 favorites to win the NBA Finals on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Who they will face in the Finals is still up in the air, but it’s looking like it will be the Pacers as they hold a 3-1 series lead. If it is indeed the Pacers, these teams matched up twice in the regular season. The Thunder won both games by an average winning margin of 13.5 points per game.
It looks to be written in the stars for OKC this season. They have the MVP of the league, they had the best record in the regular season and now they are huge favorites in the NBA Finals with homecourt advantage.
That said, this team will be under far more pressure in the Finals with the expectation to win. Whether it’s the Pacers or Knicks representing the East, either team may play with a little more freedom and swag as an underdog with nothing to lose.
Is this finally the year for Oklahoma City?
