Thunder Dominate in Quest for NBA Repeat

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The Oklahoma City Thunder, the reigning NBA champions, have been on a tear lately after a wobbly stretch earlier in the season. They've won 21 of their last 23 games and are closing in on clinching the Western Conference's top seed and the league's best record overall.

Why it matters

The Thunder's ability to bounce back from a mid-season slump and regain their dominant form makes them the clear favorites to repeat as NBA champions. Their path to the Finals appears wide open, and they'll be a tough out for any team that faces them in the playoffs.

The details

After winning 24 of their first 25 games to start the season, the Thunder hit a rough patch, going just 18-13 heading into the All-Star break. But since then, they've been unstoppable, ripping off 21 wins in their last 23 games and closing in on clinching the West's top seed and the NBA's best overall record.

• The Thunder won 24 of their first 25 games to start the season.
• They went 18-13 in the stretch leading up to the All-Star break.
• Since the All-Star break, the Thunder have won 21 of their last 23 games.

What’s next

If the Thunder can maintain their current pace, they'll clinch the West's top seed and the NBA's best record with time to spare before the playoffs begin.