NBA Roundup: Thunder Seek Repeat, Suns Face Rebuild, Celtics Roll in Preseason Opener
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Thunder begin camp focused on back-to-back titles
The Oklahoma City Thunder opened training camp determined to defend last season’s championship. The roster remains largely unchanged, anchored by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren—each still in their early 20s. Veteran guard Alex Caruso, the only player on the team with multiple rings, said the objective is clear. “Every year I’m in the league, I think I can win a championship,” Caruso told USA Today’s Clemente Almanza. “Obviously, we want to win the championship again.”
Caruso, who collected his second title last year, acknowledged the difficulty of repeating. “It’s really hard. One’s not enough. I won my second one last year and now I want a third. It’s addicting,” he added. Oklahoma City’s mix of youth, depth and chemistry positions the club to chase a feat few teams have managed since Golden State’s recent dynasty.
Suns projected for mid-30s wins after Durant and Beal departures
Following the trades that sent Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal elsewhere, the Phoenix Suns enter a transitional year with tempered expectations. ESPN projects 34.7 victories, while sportsbooks have set the over/under at 31.5. Analyst Kevin Pelton wrote that Durant’s current value “is likely overstated,” noting Phoenix has little incentive to tank because its draft pick is already committed.
The franchise’s outlook now rests on the growth of Jalen Green, Mark Williams and rookie Khaman Maluach. ESPN’s Bobby Marks labeled the situation a “necessary reset,” pointing out the Suns lack tradable first-round selections for seven years but are now younger and more financially flexible.
Balanced Celtics top Grizzlies without Tatum
Even without Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics handled the Memphis Grizzlies 121–103 in their preseason opener. Jaylen Brown poured in 21 points in 20 minutes, and Derrick White supplied 16 points and 10 assists. First-year Celtic Luka Garza recorded a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double, while rookie Hugo Gonzalez added eight points, three rebounds and three blocks.
Boston built a 29-point cushion and never trailed. Payton Pritchard, Anfernee Simons and Neemias Queta were held out, and Jordan Walsh exited after eight minutes with left adductor tightness. The Celtics return to action Friday against the Toronto Raptors.
Source: Hoops Wire
