Thunder have unique championship edge that can only be gained by experience

Mar 1, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) looks on during the game between the Mavericks and the Thunder at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesThe Oklahoma City Thunder have experienced a turbulent 2025-26 season. They've played 37 games without Jalen Williams, 28 down Isaiah Hartenstein, 20 without Sixth Man of the Year candidate Ajay Mitchell, and 12 without reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

That should've broken the Thunder, but they're still right where they were expected to be: Sitting atop the NBA. It's all because of a unique strength: Knowing how to navigate the regular…