"They're not gonna hit 60, they're gonna hit 70" - Bobby Marks thinks the OKC Thunder will surpass their projected win total

The OKC Thunder, fresh off their first NBA championship in the Oklahoma City era and a franchise-record 68-win season, are facing heightened expectations for the 2025-26 season, with ESPN analyst Bobby Marks predicting they could achieve historic success by reaching 70 wins. Marks emphasized the team's depth, noting that even if key players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren rest, the Thunder have the roster strength to win in the competitive Western Conference.

Betting sites have set the Thunder's projected win total at 62.5, the highest in the league for the upcoming season and the only team expected to surpass 60 wins, with the Cleveland Cavaliers next at 56.5. This high over/under reflects confidence in the team's performance, as 62.5 marks the highest such total since the Golden State Warriors in 2017-18. Meanwhile, ESPN expert Kevin Pelton projects a slightly lower 59.5 wins, acknowledging the rarity of such high expectations but cautioning based on historical precedents.

Marks argues that the Thunder, returning all players from their championship squad with added experience and no significant injuries, could build on their 68-win campaign. Last season's win total tied for the fifth-highest in NBA history, and reaching 70 wins would place them alongside only the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls and the record-holding 2015-16 Golden State Warriors. However, achieving this milestone does not guarantee a championship, as illustrated by the Warriors' 2016 Finals loss and numerous teams that won 62 or more games without securing the title.

Despite uncertainties, the Thunder are favored due to their young, improving core, including 2025 MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, All-Star Jalen Williams, and potential All-Star Chet Holmgren. Their health and depth provide a solid foundation for success, though whether they hit Marks' ambitious 70-win prediction or the more conservative totals, repeating as champions remains a challenge in a competitive league.