The Oklahoma City Thunder are playing basketball at a level that demands attention, and on December 2nd, they sent another emphatic message to the rest of the NBA. With a 124-112 dismantling of the Golden State Warriors, the Thunder improved to an almost incomprehensible 21-1 record, establishing themselves as the clear frontrunners in what is shaping up to be a special season in Oklahoma City.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was nothing short of spectacular, pouring in 38 points to lead his squad past the Warriors. The Canadian star saved his best for when it mattered most, drilling a crucial 3-pointer with 3:34 remaining in the fourth quarter that effectively slammed the door on any Golden State comeback hopes. It was a signature moment from a player who has elevated his game to MVP-caliber heights.

The Thunder's dominance extends far beyond their franchise cornerstone, however. Jalen Williams continued his emergence as one of the league's most complete young players, contributing 22 points and 6 assists in a performance that showcased his versatility on both ends of the floor. Meanwhile, Chet Holmgren added 21 points and 8 rebounds, demonstrating the unique skill set that makes him such a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.

This trio has formed the foundation of what could be a historically great team. At 21-1, the Thunder find themselves on pace to potentially challenge the Golden State Warriors' legendary 2015-16 regular season record of 73-9. The irony of surpassing that mark with a victory over the very team that set it would not be lost on basketball historians.

The Warriors, for their part, entered this contest without their own franchise icon. Stephen Curry missed his second consecutive game while nursing a bruised left quadriceps and muscle strain, leaving Golden State without its offensive engine. While Curry's absence certainly impacted the Warriors' ability to keep pace with Oklahoma City's offensive firepower, the Thunder's performance suggested they would have been difficult to topple regardless of who took the court against them.

What makes this Thunder team so formidable is the balance they bring every night. With three players capable of scoring 20 or more points on any given evening, opposing defenses are forced to pick their poison. Double Gilgeous-Alexander, and Williams will make you pay. Collapse on the guards, and Holmgren's length and shooting touch become impossible to contain.

The early-season success has transformed Oklahoma City from a promising young team into a legitimate championship contender. The Thunder have won with offense, defense, and everything in between. They have handled elite competition and dispatched lesser opponents with equal efficiency.

As the calendar turns toward the heart of the regular season, the question is no longer whether Oklahoma City belongs among the NBA's elite. Instead, it is whether anyone can slow down a juggernaut that shows no signs of stopping. With Gilgeous-Alexander playing at an MVP level and a supporting cast that continues to exceed expectations, the Thunder are not just winning games. They are rewriting expectations for what is possible in Oklahoma City.

For now, the basketball world watches and waits to see just how far this remarkable run can go.