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Chet Holmgren

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August 24, 2025

Stephen A. Smith sees Mavericks as Thunder's biggest threat

@the_thunderwire

OKC Thunder Wire

Stephen A. Smith sees Mavericks as Thunder's biggest threat

Stephen A. Smith pins Dallas as the Thunder’s top threat for 2025-26, arguing Dallas consistently handles OKC even when Luka Doncic isn’t at full strength. OKC enters next season as the consensus regular-season favorite, built on continuity from their championship run with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Isaiah Hartenstein. The Mavericks, per the piece, shift into a fresh slate with Cooper Flagg and Anthony Davis stepping in for Doncic and Irving, adding a new dynamic to the Thunder’s title chase.

Which matchup edge from OKC’s core gives Thunder fans a clear edge over Dallas in a playoff series?What is the most overlooked fantasy angle in this OKC-Dallas dynamic?How should fantasy players prepare for fluctuations in Dallas’ roster with Flagg and Davis in the fold?Which injury/rest patterns should fantasy owners monitor for OKC and Dallas early in the season?

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@Kyrie Irving | Dallas Mavericks | NBA

@Luka Doncic | Dallas Mavericks | NBA

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@Shai Gilgeous-Alexander | Oklahoma City Thunder | NBA

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