Kendrick Perkins admits that the Oklahoma City Thunder's big strength is their deep bench

The Oklahoma City Thunder are the favorites to win the championship again this season. They have an elite group of players led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP and Finals MVP. 

However, they have a deep roster that could be the primary reason behind their success. Moving forward, that depth will continue to be a big strength as it was in the previous championship run.

Perkins highlights that the Thunder's bench can lead them to a title repeat

As a former Thunder player, Perkins is well aware of how Sam Presti constructs the roster. During his time in OKC, Perkins had plenty of talented players around him, with stars and superb bench players.

Nowadays, Presti continues to craft amazing rosters because they have the best depth in the league. In the long run, that could be the key to winning a championship, which was true in the 2025 NBA Finals.

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It is challenging to beat the Thunder because every player knows their roles. This is evident with Jaylin Williams' recent surge in performances, as he is doing well stepping in for Chet Holmgren.

"They have about four to five, maybe even six guys that come off their bench, that are straters anywhere else. Cason Wallace, when fully healthy, is a starter anywhere else. Ajay Mitchell can be a second option. Jaylin Williams... Would give the Lakers what they're looking for," Perkins said on Road Trippin'.

"When you think about how they're able to plug and replace... No Alex Caruso, no J-Dub, no Chet Holmgren, SGA was phenomenal, but he still had 15 assists."

Perkins makes a great point about the current Thunder roster. They are well aware they are playing for a championship-caliber team, so when they are called upon, the bench players step up.

It will be challenging to beat this Thunder team no matter how healthy they are. Head coach Mark Daigneault has a good arsenal of players, and they are all motivated to win another one.

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