The Warriors and Lakers all suffered a disastrous defeat! Looking at it now, the only ones that can cause trouble for the Thunder are these 5 teams

Since the start of the new NBA season on November 14, the Thunder have shown the strength of the defending champions. They have 12 wins and 1 loss since the start of the season, tying the record of the Bulls in the same period in 1996, and only one less win than the 73-win Warriors. This is the team's record in the absence of Jay Wei. The Warriors and Lakers, who were previously considered favorites to compete for the championship, both lost miserably to the Thunder. Are the Thunder really invincible? Maybe these 5 teams still have a chance.

Rockets

The Rockets had a dialogue with the Thunder in the opening game. As a result, the two sides fought fiercely in double overtime, and the Thunder narrowly defeated the Rockets. The fact that the two sides fought to this extent already illustrates the ability of the Rockets. Although the Thunder Wei has not played yet, but the Rockets at the time had no chemistry and had not figured out the rotation, but it is different now. Durant has adapted to the team better, Shepard has also found his position, and their core point guard Van Jordan has not returned yet.

Van Jordan may return at the end of the regular season. His defensive ability and field control ability are indispensable to the Rockets. Even if he does not return, the Rockets will be even better than they are now by the end of the season. Their current defense has not yet reached the most perfect level, and the team's zone defense often has loopholes. However, there is still something gratifying about the Rockets this season. Their offensive efficiency ranks first in the league. Relying on a large lineup, the team's rebounding ability and secondary offense are very powerful.

Nuggets

The Nuggets are the team that seems most promising to defeat the Thunder. Last season, the two sides reached the tiebreaker. As a result, due to the insufficient thickness of the lineup, the Nuggets' physical energy was exhausted, which ultimately led to their loss. , this season the Nuggets introduced Varan, Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown. All three of them performed very well after joining the team. Varan is the player with the strongest low-post lethality this season. The Thunder's two thin inside players cannot guard him and Jokic, which is their greatest asset.

Although the loss of Porter Jr. makes the Nuggets' starting lineup look less strong, Cameron Johnson has strengthened the starting defense. This is what they need most in the starting lineup. Gordon and Murray have shared more of Porter's previous offensive fire this season. Strength, Gordon has increased the number of goals this season, his shooting has been significantly improved, and this team has the first player in the league. Jokic has provided this team with a very high limit. After they have developed a chemical reaction, the team has recently won 6 consecutive victories and is in excellent condition.

Timberwolves

The Timberwolves did not beat the Thunder last season. At that time, Edwards also admitted that he was not as good as Alexander and Doncic, so he practiced hard in the offseason. This season, he has developed better mid-range ability. Now Edwards has no offensive shortcomings. The biggest difference between him and Alexander now is that he cannot commit fouls. Edwards averaged 27.1 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game this season, shooting 50.4% from the field, 50% from three-point range, and averaging 4.1 three-pointers per game.

You must know that Huazi faces the opponent's strongest defense in every game, and he still achieves such a shooting efficiency. It is so incomprehensible. In addition, Randall has adapted to the team's system more this season. He has found his position correctly, averaging 25+7+6 per game and becoming the league's top second player. Chet's small body cannot hold him. McDan also ushered in an increase in goals this season, averaging 18+ per game, and the defense is still strong. The Timberwolves have reached the Western Conference Finals two consecutive years, and they are stronger this season.

Knicks

The Knicks are now 7 wins and 4 losses. Although the record does not look very good, this team is still adapting to Mike Brown's system this season. His offensive system also allows the Knicks to win this game. Ji has been improved, and the team's offensive efficiency this season is third in the league. He has solved the problem of Thibodeau's weak offense when he was on the team. Moreover, the team has also introduced Clarkson, Shamet and Yabusele to improve the thickness of the lineup, and their biggest shortcoming has also been solved.

Although Brunson is not as good as Alexander, he is not far behind. Towns can easily crush his opponents when facing insiders like the Thunder, and they also have two outstanding forwards in Anunoby and Bridges to improve the team's offense and defense.

Cavaliers

The Cavaliers also took advantage of the Eastern Conference teams. To be honest, it is not easy for the Thunder to break out of the Western Conference. Whether they encounter the Timberwolves, Nuggets or Rockets, it is enough for them to peel off their skin. When the team's physical fitness is severely exhausted, this may allow the Eastern Conference teams to take advantage. The Knicks and Cavaliers seem to be the most promising teams in the entire East to break out of the division. So far this season, the Cavaliers have 8 wins and 5 losses, although they are not very good.

But the main reason for their poor record this season is that core members have been missing due to injuries. They are still very strong with all members playing. Mitchell averages 30+5 per game this season and is still one of the best scorers in the league. Garland is still fighting injuries. When he returns to his peak, the Cavaliers can perform at the level of last season. Having said that, what do you want to say about these 5 teams? Welcome to leave a message for discussion.