What happened
ESPN highlighted that the reigning NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder are 6-0 to open the 2026 playoffs, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams leading the charge. The undefeated start comes as OKC continues to defend the title it captured a year ago. The post drew commentary from rivals, including Lakers coach JJ Redick on the Thunder's physical style.
Why it matters
A 6-0 postseason start signals OKC is the clear favorite to repeat, reshaping championship futures and series pricing across the bracket. It also reinforces the Thunder's identity as the league's most physical and disciplined team, a profile that travels well in playoff basketball. Opponents are now publicly grappling with how to match OKC's pace and physicality.
What to watch
Watch how OKC handles its next-round opponent and whether Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams can sustain their two-way production. Adjustments from coaches like Redick to counter the Thunder's physicality will be a storyline through the conference rounds.