CBS Top 20 Under 25: Where did OKC Thunder Players Rank?
With having one of the youngest rosters in the entire NBA, it is no surprise that the Oklahoma City Thunder landed three of its players on CBS' top 20 under 25 list: Josh Giddey, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren.
All three players ranked in a similar position, as Giddey ranked at No. 15, Williams at No. 17, and Holmgren at No. 18.
Holmgren being ranked in the top 20 list is a high expectation for the rookie, but with the talent he has showcased at Gonzaga and Summer League, the high expectations are well deserved.
Holmgren is an all-around elite defensive player, possessing an incredible shot-blocking ability that will make a massive impact on the Oklahoma City defense in his rookie season. He is also a skilled offensive player that can space the floor with a legitimate 3-point shot, which will make for a fun pick-and-pop threat for Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Just a year ago, seeing Williams on this type of list would have been a surprise, but the forward became one of the top performing rookies in the NBA last season.
He fits in perfectly with the rest of the Thunder roster, using his big frame as a forward to defend multiple positions. Williams is also a skilled scorer, creating shots for himself on the perimeter and being one of the best finishers inside of the paint in the NBA.
Williams will be a perfect complementary piece going forward, but he also has the potential to be one of the top forwards in the league in the near future.
The highest ranking Thunder in the list was Giddey, who is coming off a vastly improved sophomore season. The guard is one of the NBA's greatest passers, consistently making creative passes to unsuspecting defenses.
Giddey's biggest improvement came with his scoring ability, jumping up from 12.5 to 16.6 points per game. He seemed much more confident in his offensive ability, driving to the basket at will. The outside shot still needs improvement, but everything else about his game makes up for the lack of an elite jumper.
Next season should be another jump for Giddey, and with further improvement from Williams and the emergence of Holmgren, Oklahoma City should be in for a successful 2023-24 season.
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