Each NBA team’s projected starting lineup for 2023–24
By Cal Durrett
Projected starting lineup: Oklahoma City Thunder
Point Guard: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Shooting Guard: Josh Giddey
Small Forward: Lo Dort
Power Forward: Jalen Williams
Center: Chet Holmgren
The Oklahoma City Thunder were one of the big surprises from last season. After tanking for the past several seasons, the Thunder finished within two games of making the play-in tournament. That was primarily due to the stellar play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Gilgeous-Alexander made the all-NBA first team, beating out more established stars such as Steph Curry and Damian Lillard.
With a certified superstar on their roster, things are looking up for the Thunder, especially with several other talented young players, including Josh Giddey, Jalen Williams, and 2022 second-overall pick Chet Holmgren. Holmgren missed all of his true rookie season, but he is expected to be a contender for Rookie of the Year. At Gonzaga, he established himself as an elite shot blocker with terrific defensive instincts.
That usually translates well to the NBA, and he’s also shown the ability to knock down threes, suggesting that he could be a stretch five that can also anchor the Oklahoma City Thunder’s defense. If he has the impact that many expect him to, then the Thunder could level up and make the playoffs outright this season.