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OKC Thunder's injury plague raises a question — is this franchise cursed? | Carlson
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- OKC Thunder's injury plague raises a question — is this franchise cursed? | Carlson
Sam Presti knew there was a catch.
When the OKC Thunder general manager held his annual preseason press conference and the world was full of promise and hope and uninjured basketball players , he didn't shy away from saying this team could be great. Even though several key contributors had been traded away, the roster was still stocked with talent, enough to win another championship.
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But Presti repeatedly threw in a caveat.
"I really do feel that by season's end," he said, "we could have a really exceptional basketball team if we stay healthy."
Then …
More: OKC Thunder sets Russell Westbrook jersey retirement ceremony date
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Cason Wallace (22) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Cason Wallace (22) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Cason Wallace (22) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City head coach Mark Daigneault poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain (3) shows his gold-painted fingernails during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City'w Aday Mara poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City'w Aday Mara poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Brooks Barnhizer (23) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Thomas Sorber (12) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Brooks Barnhizer (23) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Josh Dix poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Josh Dix poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Robert McCray V (16) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Josh Dix poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Bennett Stirtz poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain (3) shows his gold-painted fingernails during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Andrew Holifield (17) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Brooks Barnhizer (23) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Brooks Barnhizer (23) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City'w Aday Mara poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City'w Aday Mara poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Zhaire Smith (40) poses during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Andrew Holifield (17) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Bennett Stirtz poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Thomas Sorber (12) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain (3) shows his gold-painted fingernails during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Bennett Stirtz poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain (3) shows his gold-painted fingernails during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Robert McCray V (16) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Zhaire Smith (40) poses during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Andrew Holifield (17) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Zhaire Smith (40) poses during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City head coach Mark Daigneault poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Bennett Stirtz poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Robert McCray V (16) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City head coach Mark Daigneault poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Otega Oweh poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Otega Oweh poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Otega Oweh poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
Oklahoma City's Otega Oweh poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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These were Sarah Phipps' best photos around Oklahoma in September 2026
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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These were Sarah Phipps' best photos around Oklahoma in September 2026
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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These were Sarah Phipps' best photos around Oklahoma in September 2026
Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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These were Sarah Phipps' best photos around Oklahoma in September 2026
Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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OKC Thunder media day 2026: See our best photos of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, teammates
Oklahoma City's Cason Wallace (22) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Cason Wallace (22) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Cason Wallace (22) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City head coach Mark Daigneault poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain (3) shows his gold-painted fingernails during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City'w Aday Mara poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City'w Aday Mara poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Brooks Barnhizer (23) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Thomas Sorber (12) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Brooks Barnhizer (23) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Josh Dix poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Josh Dix poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Robert McCray V (16) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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These were Sarah Phipps' best photos around Oklahoma in September 2026
Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren (7) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams (6) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Josh Dix poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Bennett Stirtz poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain (3) shows his gold-painted fingernails during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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These were Sarah Phipps' best photos around Oklahoma in September 2026
Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jalen Williams (8) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder forward Andrew Holifield (17) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Brooks Barnhizer (23) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Brooks Barnhizer (23) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein (55) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City'w Aday Mara poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City'w Aday Mara poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Zhaire Smith (40) poses during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder forward Andrew Holifield (17) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Bennett Stirtz poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Nikola Topić (44) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Thomas Sorber (12) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain (3) shows his gold-painted fingernails during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Bennett Stirtz poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain (3) shows his gold-painted fingernails during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Robert McCray V (16) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Zhaire Smith (40) poses during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder forward Andrew Holifield (17) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Zhaire Smith (40) poses during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Jared McCain (3) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City head coach Mark Daigneault poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Bennett Stirtz poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell (25) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso (9) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Robert McCray V (16) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City Thunder center Christoph Tilly (33) poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Kenrich Williams (34) poses for a photograph during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City head coach Mark Daigneault poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Otega Oweh poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Otega Oweh poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Otega Oweh poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
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Oklahoma City's Otega Oweh poses for a photo during the Oklahoma City Thunder media day at Paycom Center, Monday, Sept., 28, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN)
"This particular group of players, if we stay healthy, if it has time together, it has a chance to be as good if not better than any of the teams we've had."
And …
"If we're healthy, I think the minutes will figure themselves out."
If we stay healthy.
Sigh.
The Thunder didn't make it a week.
A plague of injuries has befallen this team. Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace are likely done for the season. Chet Holmgren is out till almost Christmas. And several others have already spent time on the injury report, which isn't longer than the list of available players but it's close.
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Even as injuries have swept across the NBA like clouds of locusts and swarms of frogs, no team has been hit harder than the Thunder.
Has anyone checked the Bricktown Canal lately? Has the water turned to blood?
I'm not saying this franchise is cursed.
But I'm not saying it isn't either.
Name me another NBA team that lost three starters in one game.
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Oct 25, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jalen Williams (8) lays on the floor after getting injured on a play against the Los Angeles Clippers during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
You can't. There isn't one.
Oh, I suppose maybe somewhere deep in the recesses of league lore, there's another team that experienced such woe. But that game against the Clippers was the night the angel of death passed over Paycom Center.
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First came Wallace, felled by an illegal screen that wasn't dirty, just unfortunate. Players set illegal screens all the time, and defenders run into them all the time. But Wallace's left shoulder hit just wrong, tearing his labrum.
Same for Williams later in the game. Yes, the foul was upgraded to a flagrant 1. No, Kris Dunn shouldn't have hit Dub from behind while he was in the air. But it wasn't a dirty play.
The way Williams landed, fracturing his leg and dislocating his ankle?
Unlucky. Unfortunate. Unsightly.
Those two injuries alone would make you question whether the Thunder needed to atone for some unknown sin.
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Oh, and the fact that both happened on the same end of the Paycom Center court where Russell Westbrook's knee was busted and Holmgren's hip was cracked and Otega Oweh's Achilles was ruptured in practically the same spot where Tyrese Haliburton's Achilles popped during the 2025 NBA Finals, maybe someone needs to check for a hexed talisman buried under that basket.
But of course, the injuries from that one game didn't end with Williams and Wallace. It was such a bedeviled night that it felled Holmgren almost a week later when we learned he needed a biological treatment for a small patellar tendon tear in his right knee.
The problem arose after the Clippers game.
Hey, is there a chance that the Clippers and their cursed history somehow rubbed off on the Thunder that night?
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Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren (7) and guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) react after an injury to forward Jalen Williams (8) in the second half of the NBA basketball game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and LA Clippers at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Sunday, Oct., 25, 2026.
Anything seems possible at this point.
The Thunder didn't just lose three starters — it lost three of the best young players in the league, particularly on defense. All three have been All-Defense in the past two seasons.
All three are major losses.
Listen, I know all is not lost for the Thunder. Injuries are hitting hard everywhere, and this team still has the reigning MVP and enough talent to beat a decent amount of teams in the West.
But these Thunder were set up to do more than that.
I really do feel that by season's end, we could have a really exceptional basketball team if we stay healthy.
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Sam Presti knew the impact that injuries could have, but there's no way he expected this many injuries of this severity this early in the season to this many top-line players. No way he is a prophet of woe.
But woe has come.
Guess sports fans around here will have to depend on their college football teams for good vibes and happy thoughts.
Oh, wait.
Jenni Carlson: Jenni can be reached at jcarlson@oklahoman.com. Like her at facebook.com/JenniCarlsonOK, follow her at @jennicarlsonok.bsky.social and twitter.com/jennicarlson_ok, and support her work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC Thunder's injury plague raises a question — is this franchise cursed? | Carlson
