2025 OKC Thunder Preseason Preview

By Owenn Pannell | KZA Sports

The Thunder open up preseason play today at 4:00 pm CT. The first game might have already happened when you’re reading this, but here is a preview for the defending champs' preseason games.

Schedule:

10/5 at* Hornets

10/6 at* Mavericks

10/9 vs Hornets

10/11 at Pacers

10/14 at Bucks

10/17 vs Nuggets

Things we want to see

- Nikola Topic ball out

In his first NBA game against real NBA players, we want Topic to be able to make a difference. His playmaking should be on display, but the real question is, can he hang with guards he’ll be matchup up against? We will see if he will be able to be a big contributor this season.

- Ousmane Dieng take a leap

Hopefully we see Ous finally take a leap this season. If he doesn’t, it’ll be his last year on the Thunder. If he plays well, we could trade him at the deadline for assets, do a sign-and-trade, or just resign him. Many more options than if he plays poorly.

- Defense be elite

Although it’s just the preseason, I’m hoping the defense stays at an elite level. We don’t want to see any post-championship regression on the quest for a back to back.

- Ajay Mitchell continue to grow

Ajay had an amazing rookie year, even though he missed significant time from injury. He’s in a battle for the backup point guard spot, so how he preforms in the preseason could definitely have an impact.

- Brooks Barnhizer make an impact

With first round pick Thomas Sorber missing the season with a torn ACL, eyes will be on the other rookie Brooks Barnhizer. He became a fan favorite in the summer league, it’ll be interesting to see how he preforms in the NBA.

- NO INJURIES

This is by far the most important thing. If one of our key guys, or any of our guys, get hurt in the preseason, that would suck. The starters won’t get that many minutes, but still the risk is there.

Top Storylines

- 3rd 2-way spot

Currently, Brooks Barnhizer and Branden Carlson have 2/3 of the 2-way contracts. Malevy Leons, Chris Youngblood, Zack Austin and Jazian Gortman are competing for the last spot. The play of those guys will definitely be something to keep an eye on.

- Backup PG

Nikola Topic and Ajay Mitchell are competing for the backup PG spot, and both are great options. Mitchell has the edge when it comes to experience, and current impact. However, Topic has the edge when it comes to ceiling and possible impact. They both play well together in my opinion, Mitchell is less of a playmaker than Topic, but more of a shooter and defender. I’m very excited to watch these 2.

- Chet Holmgren

I’m expecting a MASSIVE jump from Chet this season, and we could see flashes of the in the preseason. Him and Hart worked out a ton together this offseason, so could we see a nice playmaking jump from Chet? I hope so.

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