The Oklahoma City Thunder have displayed a remarkable resilience to the escalating physicality of the NBA playoffs, with players like Chet Holmgren embracing the more aggressive style of play. Holmgren likened the current atmosphere to playing at the park, emphasizing the necessity of scoring without depending on fouls. Coach Mark Daigneault noted that while officiating has adjusted to allow for more physicality, the Thunder have adapted, maintaining one of the lowest average fouls in the playoffs. This approach has enabled them to thrive as they prepare for the next round of competition.

Isaiah Hartenstein emphasized the importance of matching the physical tone set by their opponents, while Daigneault expressed confidence in tracking officiating trends, revealing a more nuanced understanding of how the playoff climate has shifted. As they navigate through matches, the Thunder's commitment to playing through contact without over-relying on the referees has been pivotal in their playoff strategy. All-Stars like Jalen Williams have echoed this sentiment, expressing that they focus on replicating the physicality they face from other teams.