The Best Oklahoma City Thunder Players From 2011 Until 2023

Over the past decade, the Oklahoma City Thunder have undergone a dynamic transformation, cycling through eras marked by superstar talent, intense playoff battles, and strategic rebuilds. From the thunderous dunks of Russell Westbrook to the prolific scoring of Kevin Durant, and the emergence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in more recent times, the Thunder’s player roster has been a captivating narrative of skill, resilience, and evolution.

In this exploration, we delve into the standout performers who have left an indelible mark on the franchise from 2011 to 2023, examining their impact on the court and the legacy they’ve etched into the annals of Thunder history. It is time to relive the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments that define the best Oklahoma City Thunder players of this thrilling and transformative era.

2010-11: Kevin Durant

Stats: 27.7 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection, Scoring Champion

In 2011, the Oklahoma City Thunder were propelled to new heights behind the scoring prowess of Kevin Durant. Not only did Durant lead the league in scoring with an impressive 27.7 points per game, but he also showcased his efficiency by shooting 46.2% from the field. Durant’s offensive brilliance was complemented by his defensive contributions, as he averaged 1.1 steals and 1.0 blocks per game.

This remarkable two-way impact led the Thunder to the Western Conference Finals, providing a glimpse of Durant’s ability to elevate his game in crucial moments although they lost to the eventual champion Dallas Mavericks. Beyond the numbers, Durant’s leadership and clutch performances were vital as he solidified his status as one of the NBA’s premier talents, setting the stage for the Thunder’s future success and leaving an enduring legacy in Oklahoma City.

2011-12: Kevin Durant

Stats: 28.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection, Scoring Champion, All-Star Game MVP

In 2012, Kevin Durant continued his reign as the Oklahoma City Thunder’s offensive juggernaut and team leader. Durant not only secured his third consecutive scoring title with an impressive 28.0 points per game but also displayed an improved all-around game by contributing 8.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per contest. What made Durant’s 2012 campaign particularly captivating was his shooting efficiency, boasting a remarkable 49.6% field goal percentage and a stellar 38.7% from beyond the arc.

As the focal point of the Thunder’s offensive schemes, Durant’s versatility was on full display, allowing him to navigate defenses with finesse and elevate his teammates’ performances. The 2012 season marked a pivotal moment in Durant’s career, solidifying his place among the NBA elite while guiding the Thunder to the NBA Finals, where they fell short against the Miami Heat in a hard-fought series. Durant’s 2012 performance encapsulated not only statistical brilliance but also the resilience and determination that would become hallmarks of his storied career.

2012-13: Kevin Durant

Stats: 28.1 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection

Averaging a staggering 28.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, Durant began to showcase an increased level of versatility. His scoring proficiency was accentuated by remarkable efficiency, boasting a 51% field goal percentage and an impressive 41.6% from beyond the arc and 90.6% from the free-throw line in an iconic 50-40-90 season.

Durant’s impact extended beyond individual accolades, guiding the Oklahoma City Thunder to the second round, where they faced the grit-n-grind Memphis Grizzlies in a thrilling 5-game showdown. While falling short, Durant’s 2013 season underscored his ability to carry a team on his shoulders and set the stage for a career defined by both statistical brilliance and a relentless pursuit of team success.

2013-14: Kevin Durant

Stats: 32.0 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection, Scoring Champion

In 2014, Kevin Durant transcended into the realm of basketball greatness, delivering a season that not only garnered him the NBA Most Valuable Player award but also showcased his unparalleled scoring prowess. Averaging an astounding 32.0 points per game, Durant led the league in scoring for the fifth consecutive season. His efficiency was nothing short of spectacular, shooting 50.3% from the field and an impressive 39.1% from three-point range. Beyond the box score, Durant’s impact extended to his playmaking abilities, as he averaged a career-high 5.5 assists per game, demonstrating a newfound dimension to his game.

This transformative season not only solidified Durant as the league’s premier scorer but also propelled the Thunder to the second seed in the Western Conference. Durant’s 2014 performance remains a benchmark of individual excellence, marking a pivotal chapter in his career as he carried the Thunder on his shoulders with a blend of scoring artistry, efficiency, and an unwavering commitment to team success although they lost in the Western Conference Finals to the eventual champion San Antonio Spurs.

2014-15: Russell Westbrook

Stats: 28.1 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 8.6 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team Selection, Scoring Champion, All-Star Game MVP

In 2015, Russell Westbrook stepped into the spotlight as the undisputed force driving the Oklahoma City Thunder. In the absence of Kevin Durant due to injury (only 27 games played), Westbrook not only shouldered an increased scoring load but elevated his game to historic levels. Averaging a jaw-dropping triple-double with 28.1 points, 8.6 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game, Westbrook became one of the top-five players in the world and showed he can be the man on a team.

His relentless playing style and explosive athleticism were on full display, captivating fans and opponents alike as he captured the scoring title and All-Star Game MVP trophy. Beyond the numbers, Westbrook’s indomitable spirit and fierce competitiveness kept the Thunder in playoff contention with 45 wins although the team just missed the postseason.

2015-16: Kevin Durant

Stats: 28.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team Selection

In the 2016 season, Kevin Durant’s final campaign with the Oklahoma City Thunder, he led the team with a remarkable display of all-around excellence. Under the coaching of Billy Donovan, Durant guided the Thunder to an impressive 55-win season, setting the stage for a deep playoff run. The highlight of the season was their journey to the Western Conference Finals, where they faced the record-setting Golden State Warriors.

Durant and the Thunder managed to take a commanding 3-1 series lead, showcasing Durant’s scoring prowess and the team’s collective strength. However, the series slipped away, and they ultimately fell short in a closely contested seven-game battle. Durant faced significant criticism for the loss, as the Thunder couldn’t capitalize on their lead, leading to intensified speculation about his future. Little did anyone know that this would be Durant’s farewell season in Oklahoma City, making his departure a poignant moment in the franchise’s history.

2016-17: Russell Westbrook

Stats: 31.6 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 10.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection, Scoring Champion

In the 2017 season, Russell Westbrook delivered one of the most historic individual performances in NBA history, etching his name alongside legends. Following the departure of Kevin Durant, Westbrook embraced the role of the undisputed leader of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and he did so with unparalleled tenacity. Averaging a triple-double for the entire season with 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game, Westbrook became the first player since Oscar Robertson in 1962 to achieve this remarkable feat. His relentless style of play and unmatched athleticism fueled the Thunder’s competitive spirit, and Westbrook’s nightly triple-double became a captivating storyline throughout the league.

Westbrook’s 2017 season was a testament to his sheer willpower and determination, earning him the NBA Most Valuable Player award. Beyond the statistics, his on-court intensity and ability to carry a team in the absence of another superstar solidified his status as one of the league’s most dynamic and impactful players because he carried the Thunder to the playoffs with 47 wins somehow.

2017-18: Russell Westbrook

Stats: 25.4 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 10.3 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team Selection, Assist Champion

In the 2018 season, Russell Westbrook continued his reign of statistical dominance and unwavering competitiveness with the Oklahoma City Thunder with Paul George as his new teammate. Averaging a triple-double for the second consecutive season, Westbrook showcased his unparalleled combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities. With averages of 25.4 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game, Westbrook’s relentless pursuit of triple-doubles became a trademark of his play, symbolizing his commitment to leaving everything on the court for the Thunder.

Despite facing challenges in the highly competitive Western Conference, Westbrook’s leadership and on-court intensity propelled the Thunder to a playoff berth, further solidifying his status as the heart and soul of the team. With 48 wins, the Thunder were solid but unable to defeat the Utah Jazz in the first round of the playoffs.

2018-19: Paul George

Stats: 28.0 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 4.1 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection, All-Defensive First Team Selection, Steals Champion

In the 2019 season, Paul George emerged as a central figure for the Oklahoma City Thunder, delivering a standout performance that underscored his two-way prowess and offensive versatility. George, often regarded as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders, showcased his defensive acumen by averaging 2.2 steals per game which led the NBA. However, it was on the offensive end where George truly shone, posting career-high numbers with 28 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game.

Teaming up with Russell Westbrook, George propelled the Thunder to a competitive standing in the Western Conference, solidifying their status as a playoff contender. His scoring ability, three-point shooting, and defensive contributions earned him both All-NBA and All-Defensive Team honors, highlighting his impact on both ends of the floor. While the Thunder faced postseason challenges due to a first-round exit courtesy of an iconic Damian Lillard game-winner, George might have had his best individual season in 2019.

2019-20: Chris Paul

Stats: 17.6 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team Selection

In the 2020 season, Chris Paul orchestrated a basketball symphony with the Oklahoma City Thunder, defying expectations and proving that age is merely a number for the veteran point guard. Acquired in a blockbuster trade, Paul’s leadership, court vision, and clutch performances became the driving force behind the Thunder’s surprising success. Averaging 17.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game, the 34-year-old Paul not only demonstrated his enduring skills but also played a pivotal role in nurturing the young talent on the roster, notably Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Under Paul’s guidance, the Thunder exceeded preseason predictions, securing a playoff berth in a fiercely competitive Western Conference. Paul’s ability to control the tempo, make crucial plays in crunch time, and mentor the team’s emerging stars painted a narrative of resilience and excellence. Paul took the Thunder to seven games against the Houston Rockets before a timely James Harden block sent the “Point God” home in the postseason.

2020-21: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Stats: 23.7 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 5.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: N/A

In the 2021 season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, at the tender age of 22, emerged as the beacon of hope for the Oklahoma City Thunder amidst a transitional phase. Despite playing only 35 games, Gilgeous-Alexander showcased a level of maturity and skill that belied his youth. Averaging an impressive 23.7 points per game, he not only demonstrated his burgeoning scoring prowess but also hinted at the broader spectrum of his all-around talents.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s third season marked a pivotal moment for the Thunder as they transitioned to a new era, parting ways with veteran leader Chris Paul in their strategic rebuilding efforts. Shai not only assumed a more significant role on the court but also became the face of the franchise’s future. His ability to navigate through defenses, create scoring opportunities, and contribute on both ends of the floor signaled a promising trajectory for the young guard. 

2021-22: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Stats: 24.5 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements And Awards: N/A

In the 2022 season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander further solidified his status as a burgeoning star for the Oklahoma City Thunder. At the age of 23, he continued to showcase notable growth, achieving a career-high in scoring with an impressive average of 24.5 points per game. Despite the Thunder focusing on a rebuilding strategy and embracing a tanking approach, Shai thrived in his role as a focal point of the offense, using the opportunity to display his individual talents without the weight of championship expectations.

With 56 games under his belt, Gilgeous-Alexander’s dominance on the court became increasingly apparent. His ability to create scoring opportunities, navigate through defenses, and contribute across various facets of the game highlighted not only his individual skills but also his potential to lead the Thunder into a new competitive era.

2022-23: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI1YkEL54SQ

Stats: 31.4 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection

In the 2023 season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander elevated his game to superstar status, showcasing a level of excellence that firmly established him among the NBA’s elite. Averaging a staggering 31.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, Shai not only led the Thunder in scoring but also demonstrated his playmaking abilities, earning him a well-deserved spot on the All-NBA First Team and his maiden All-Star selection.

His transformative impact on the court was reflected in the Thunder’s remarkable improvement, winning 40 games despite facing the challenges of a season-ending injury to the highly-touted No. 2 overall pick, Chet Holmgren. While narrowly missing out on a playoff berth, Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership and individual brilliance were instrumental in pushing the Thunder to the brink of postseason contention. The 2023 season marked a significant milestone in Shai’s career, as he not only fulfilled the expectations of a franchise cornerstone but also emerged as a bona fide superstar capable of carrying a team on his shoulders.