Oklahoma City Thunder’s early stretch in the 2025-26 season generated immediate shock across the NBA landscape. With a 23-1 record, the team sent a powerful message: last season’s championship was not the result of luck, but rather the product of sustained growth from a young core.
That level of performance led Kendrick Perkins to issue a prediction that sounded bold but aligned with what they are showing now. He argued that the Thunder could finish 80-2. The comment came on the “Road Trippin’” show, where Perkins stated: “They are trying to win it all. They could go 80-2. That 73-9 record Golden State had, OKC breaks it this year.”
A claim backed by recent data
According to Athlonsports, his remark was not isolated. Richard Jefferson acknowledged that the team’s potential is enormous, even when the roster deals with temporary absences. The win over Utah without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander strengthened the belief in a functional and adaptable system.
In addition, Draymond Green also backed the possibility. “They are literally plug and play. It doesn’t matter who is out of the lineup; they are still a great team,” he said on his podcast.
Kendrick Perkins says the Thunder are definitely breaking Warriors 73-9 record
“They might go 80-2. I mean this with every big bone in my body. That 73-9 record that GS got. OKC beating that this year. Hands down”(Via @RoadTrippinShow) 👀 pic.twitter.com/C7erD5dxQy
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) December 10, 2025
The reasoning stems from clear concepts. Oklahoma does not rely on a single figure. Its defensive scheme is compact, and its offensive movement flows without interruptions. The team delivers similar output even when rotations modify the starting lineup.
The season is long, and challenges will increase once back-to-back road trips intensify. Opponents deploy adjustments based on physical wear and film breakdown. However, today’s landscape positions the Thunder as favorites to secure the top record in the West.
Their ability to break Golden State’s 73-win benchmark depends on depth, continuity, and health. At this point, the prevailing sentiment around the league is that nothing seems out of reach for Oklahoma.
