NBA Notes: Thunder, Alex Caruso, Suns, projections, Celtics

Thunder

The Thunder know how rare it is to repeat, but they’re not running from the challenge.

After winning their first championship last season, OKC enters camp focused on defending the crown. The roster remains largely intact, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren — all still in their early 20s and entering their primes.

Veteran guard Alex Caruso, the lone player on the roster with multiple rings, said the team’s goal is simple.

“Every year I’m in the league, I think I can win a championship,” he said, via Clemente Almanza of USA Today. “Obviously, we want to win the championship again. There’s a lot that goes into that.”

Caruso’s perspective carries weight in a young locker room.

“It’s really hard,” he added. “One’s not enough. I won my second one last year and now I want a third. It’s addicting.”

Oklahoma City’s youth, depth and chemistry give them a real chance to do what few teams have accomplished since the Warriors dynasty. They know the league will be gunning for them every night, and they seem ready for it.

Suns

Analyst Kevin Pelton believes the Suns could be more competitive than many expect but said Durant’s absence may not be as devastating as it seems, writes Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic.

“Durant’s value at this stage of his career is likely overstated,” Pelton wrote. “And Phoenix has no incentive to tank since its pick is essentially gone.”

The Suns’ future now depends on the development of Jalen Green, Mark Williams and rookie Khaman Maluach, as Rankin noted.

ESPN’s Bobby Marks called it a necessary reset, adding that while Phoenix has no tradable first-rounders for seven years, the team is “younger, hungrier and more flexible.”

Celtics

The Celtics didn’t look like a team missing Jayson Tatum in their preseason opener. Jaylen Brown scored 21 points in 20 minutes, Derrick White added 16 points and 10 assists, and Boston rolled past Memphis 121-103.

First-year Celtic Luka Garza made an impression with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while rookie Hugo Gonzalez contributed eight points, three rebounds and three blocks in limited action. The Celtics led by as many as 29 and controlled the game throughout.

Payton Pritchard, Anfernee Simons and Neemias Queta all sat out, and Jordan Walsh played only eight minutes before leaving with left adductor tightness. 

The Celtics return to action Friday against the Raptors.