OKC Thunder Charging: Shai Eyes Historic 70-Win Season

Merlin sees the league at a clear midpoint: the Oklahoma City Thunder are the class of the season — franchise-record chatter is real — while a parade of struggling clubs (Wizards, Pelicans, Kings, Nets) look more interested in ping‑pong balls than playoff runs. Injuries (Giannis, Zion, Wembanyama) and front‑office drama (Clippers, Bucks trade talk) are reshaping rosters, and young pieces and rookies are forcing teams to choose between competing now or leaning into rebuilds. Merlin notes the season’s seams are showing: hot streaks (Boston, Houston, Detroit) and surprise stars (Reaves, Edey, Maxey) shift trade calculus, while development minutes will decide futures. This winter will be a crossroads — expect more roster moves and clearer pecking orders as the calendar turns.