The Oklahoma City Thunder are projected to win 60 games next season, placing them second in the Western Conference behind the San Antonio Spurs according to ESPN's Insiders. This forecast comes as the Thunder's recent form shows a 1W-4L record, having lost their last four contests including a 103-111 defeat to the Spurs on May 31, 2026.
What are the ESPN projections for the Western Conference?
ESPN's Insiders released their top-five projected teams for the 2026-27 NBA season based on win totals. The San Antonio Spurs lead the list with a projected record of 62-20. The Oklahoma City Thunder are right behind them at 60-22. The Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets are tied for third with 51-31 projections, followed by the Minnesota Timberwolves rounding out the top five. These numbers highlight a tight race at the top of the conference standings.
Last season, the Thunder won a league-best 64 games, two more than the Spurs' 62 victories. The new projection suggests a slight regression for Oklahoma City and consistency for San Antonio, who are forecast to match their previous win total. You can track the evolving conference race on our [standings](/standings) page throughout the season.
Why does this matter for the Oklahoma City Thunder?
Projections are just numbers, but this one signals high expectations for the Thunder core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams. Maintaining a 60-win pace requires elite performance on both ends of the floor. The team's recent 1W-4L stretch, however, serves as a stark reminder of the fine margins in the NBA. Losing four in a row, even in preseason or early season play, can impact momentum.
Head coach Mark Daigneault will need to address the issues that led to that late-season 103-111 loss to the Spurs. Improving perimeter defense and three-point shooting percentages will likely be focal points. The Thunder's ability to bounce back from that skid will be tested early. Fans can monitor player availability and health updates on our [injuries](/injuries) hub.
What's next for the Thunder this offseason?
The immediate focus shifts to training camp and preseason preparation. Integrating any roster changes and building chemistry will be paramount to hitting the ground running in October. The Thunder's front office, led by Sam Presti, may also evaluate the roster based on these projections and the team's finish to last season.
Their schedule will be challenging, featuring multiple games against the other top projected teams like the Nuggets and Rockets. Every possession, every rebound, and every assist will count in a conference this stacked. The Thunder have the talent to exceed the 60-win forecast, but it will require consistent execution night after night. You can view their upcoming matchups on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
Ultimately, projections provide a talking point. The real work happens on the court. The Oklahoma City Thunder have established themselves as a contender, and the entire organization will be motivated to prove the ESPN forecast is just a starting point, not a ceiling.
