Why the 2025 Thunder Are Oklahoma City’s Best Team Ever – According to Kendrick Perkins

Kendrick Perkins, former NBA player and current ESPN analyst, has made a strong case for the 2025 Oklahoma City Thunder as the greatest team in franchise history. He believes they have surpassed even the iconic 2012 squad led by Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden.

Perkins credits their unmatched depth and defensive dominance as the key reasons for this distinction.

The 2025 Oklahoma City Thunder boast superior depth and defense compared to past teams

Kendrick Perkins highlights that while the 2012 Thunder featured future Hall of Famers, the current roster is more balanced and mature. Key additions like Cason Wallace, Alex Caruso, and Jalen Williams have transformed the team into an elite defensive unit. Perkins goes as far as calling them "one of the greatest defensive teams in NBA history." The 2025 Thunder’s depth allows coach Mark Daigneault to deploy versatile defensive schemes while keeping players fresh. This is a luxury the 2012 team didn’t have. Kendrick Perkins also notes that despite their youth, the 2025 squad plays with the composure of seasoned veterans, a trait that has been crucial in their success.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is now the greatest Oklahoma City Thunder player ever

At the center of this team’s rise is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, whom Kendrick Perkins considers the best player in Oklahoma City Thunder history—even above Durant and Westbrook.

Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged over 30 points per game for three straight seasons while shooting above 50% from the field. His MVP-level performances have redefined the franchise.

Kendrick Perkins predicts that if the Thunder win the 2025 NBA Finals, Gilgeous-Alexander will also secure Finals MVP, further cementing his legacy. His ability to dominate offensively while leading the team’s defensive intensity sets him apart from past Thunder stars. He said: “He will be the greatest Thunder ever. Yes, past Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook,” Perkins said.

“Third consecutive season of averaging over 30 shooting over 50% from the field, scoring title, MVP, conference MVP, going to the NBA Finals, winning the championship, and he's going to win Finals MVP.”

The Oklahoma City Thunder’s playoff dominance proves their historic potential

The 2025 Oklahoma City Thunder have been unstoppable in the playoffs, including a 124-94 blowout win over the Minnesota Timberwolves to clinch the Western Conference Finals. Their defense was suffocating, forcing 14 steals and 8 blocks while holding the Timberwolves to poor shooting percentages. Throughout the postseason, the Thunder have averaged 10.3 steals per game, turning defense into fast-break opportunities. Their ability to disrupt opponents and convert turnovers into points has made them nearly unbeatable.

Records and blowout wins highlight their superiority

The Oklahoma City Thunder have set franchise records for blowout victories, showcasing their ability to dominate games from start to finish. Their deep roster allows them to maintain pressure on both ends of the floor, adapting defensively while keeping offensive efficiency high. Kendrick Perkins confidently states that the 2025 team would defeat the 2012 Thunder in a seven-game series. Their combination of talent, defense, and maturity makes them the most complete team in franchise history.Also read: NBA Free Agency Rumors: Is LeBron James leaving the Los Angeles Lakers - Deep dive into the legend's possible future in the leagueWith their current trajectory, the 2025 Thunder are on the verge of bringing Oklahoma City its first NBA championship since the franchise relocated. Kendrick Perkins’ endorsement underscores just how special this team is—not just for the Thunder, but in NBA history. Their defensive mastery, star power, and depth make them a true powerhouse, ready to etch their names in the record books.