The Oklahoma City Thunder have seven players ranked in ESPN's Top 100 NBA players list for the 2026-27 season, a clear sign of their championship-caliber roster.
Alex Caruso starts the group at No. 84, recognized for his elite perimeter defense. ESPN's analysis highlighted his defensive metrics and a strong offensive showing in last season's Western Conference finals. Second-year guard Ajay Mitchell landed at No. 79 after a breakout season that saw him finish fifth in Most Improved Player voting.
Cason Wallace cracked the list for the first time at No. 75, earning his spot with All-Defense honors and leading the league in steals. Isaiah Hartenstein follows at No. 74, valued for his interior presence and rebounding despite recent injury setbacks. Jalen Williams, limited by injuries last season, still commands a high ranking at No. 25. The list is topped by the Thunder's superstar duo: Chet Holmgren at No. 9 and back-to-back MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at No. 2.
Having seven players in the top 100 is almost unheard of. It speaks directly to the roster construction that makes Oklahoma City so dangerous. They aren't reliant on just one or two stars. This depth allows them to withstand the grind of an 82-game season and the intensity of the playoffs. Opponents can't just focus on stopping Gilgeous-Alexander.
Players like Wallace and Mitchell provide defensive versatility and secondary playmaking. Hartenstein and Holmgren form a formidable frontcourt pairing. That balance is why they are considered title favorites alongside the San Antonio Spurs.
The rankings reflect a team built to win now, and recent results prove it.
Closing the series with a 131-122 victory on April 28 demonstrates their ability to adjust and dominate. The team's consistency is a major reason for their championship expectations.
