Oklahoma City Thunder’s blazing start ignited by Isaiah Joe’s return
The Oklahoma City Thunder are making waves once again, showcasing their potential with a remarkable start to the season. After securing 57 wins in the 2023-24 season and following up with an impressive 68 victories in 2024-25, the Thunder’s trajectory this year continues to suggest they are on the brink of another significant campaign. With a current record of 14-1, they have firmly established themselves as one of the NBA’s elite teams.
Offensive Struggles at the Start
However, the journey hasn’t been without its bumps. Early in the season, the Thunder faced notable offensive challenges despite the steady leadership of reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who navigated the team’s shooting woes. The absence of All-NBA wing Jalen Williams, who is recovering from wrist surgery, significantly impacted their scoring dynamics. Although Williams has yet to see the court this year, the return of another key player has notably revitalized the Thunder’s offense.
Isaiah Joe’s Impact
Isaiah Joe, who missed the first five games of the season due to injury, has made a substantial difference since rejoining the lineup. His shooting ability has injected new life into Mark Daigneault’s offensive scheme. Before Joe’s return, the Thunder struggled to consistently connect from beyond the arc, but his presence as a sharpshooter adds an essential dimension that helps to stretch defenses.
In his ten appearances this season, Joe is averaging a career-best 14.7 points, along with 3.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists. His shooting percentages are impressive as well, with a 43.3% success rate from the field and an even more remarkable 40.5% from three-point range, attempting over eight shots per game. The impact of Joe’s return has been felt not just in scoring, but also in stabilizing a bench unit that previously found it difficult to generate points, forcing the starters to shoulder the offensive burden.
A Positive Shift for the Thunder
The Thunder managed to start the season strong at 5-0, but Joe’s addition has streamlined their offensive execution. Beyond just his scoring, the 26-year-old has demonstrated marked improvements in his overall gameplay. This season, he appears more comfortable with the ball, taking on a greater role in orchestrating the team’s offense during critical moments.
Moreover, Joe has showcased enhanced playmaking abilities and defensive skills, appearing more self-assured on the court. If he can maintain this level of production and continue to grow, particularly as Williams makes his return, the Thunder’s offensive outlook looks promising compared to last season. During their playoff run, the team faced difficulties with perimeter shooting, often relying on defensive prowess and timely scoring to secure victories.
Looking Ahead
Should Joe emerge as a key contributor when the playoffs arrive, the Thunder may find themselves in a much stronger position, potentially alleviating previous concerns around their offensive consistency. As the season unfolds, the synergy between Joe and his teammates will be crucial in shaping Oklahoma City’s playoff aspirations. The excitement surrounding this Thunder team is palpable, and as they continue to build momentum, the basketball world will be watching closely.
