The Oklahoma City Thunder returned to the practice floor on Friday, May 15, following a well-earned three-day break. After sweeping the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round, the reigning NBA champions are enjoying some extra rest—a luxury that comes with an 8-0 playoff record through two rounds.
With the Western Conference Finals now on the horizon, the Thunder are preparing to face either the San Antonio Spurs or the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Spurs currently hold a 3-2 series lead, so OKC is keeping a close eye on that matchup while sharpening their own game.
Head coach Mark Daigneault and star big man Chet Holmgren spoke with the media after the session. Daigneault praised the team's focus and productivity, noting that the practice was sharp and fundamental. He also provided an update on Jalen Williams, who continues to make progress in his recovery. "Same stuff. I'm not going to give you the blow-by-blow on the details, but he continues to make progress and he's doing a great job," Daigneault said.
Reflecting on the Game 4 win over the Lakers, Daigneault admitted it wasn't their cleanest performance. "That was humbling. It allowed us to make some corrections and look at that closely," he explained. "I also think we did a great job of staying composed and finding a way to win." That ability to grind out victories, even when not at their best, is a hallmark of championship teams.
Chet Holmgren, meanwhile, discussed his impressive playoff run on both ends of the floor. His two-way impact has been a key factor in OKC's early dominance, and he's looking to carry that momentum into the next round.
Daigneault also had high praise for Aaron Wiggins, who has embraced a limited role during the playoffs. "Like a total pro, just like everybody else. I think all these guys' willingness to accept their role at any given point in time is what makes this team special," the coach said. That team-first mentality is exactly what you want to see as the Thunder gear up for another deep postseason run.
For now, it's a waiting game—but one thing is clear: Oklahoma City is locked in and ready for whatever comes next.
