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Thunder’s Win Over Nuggets Has Charles Barkley Pointing to a Bigger Problem for NBA

The Oklahoma City Thunder gave Charles Barkley something to think about beyond another early-season victory. Following OKC’s 96-84 win over the Denver Nuggets, Barkley pointed toward a problem opponents will have to solve: This team can make winning miserable even…

Published: Friday, 23 October 2026 at 5:44 AM
Thunder’s Win Over Nuggets Has Charles Barkley Pointing to a Bigger Problem for NBA
Key Things to Know
  • Charles Barkley declared the Oklahoma City Thunder the NBA's team to beat following their 96-84 win over Denver.
  • Oklahoma City defeated the Denver Nuggets 96-84 behind relentless defense and interior depth.
  • Barkley emphasized that the Thunder can dominate even when star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has an uneven offensive night.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Following the Oklahoma City Thunder's 96-84 victory over the Denver Nuggets, Charles Barkley labeled Oklahoma City as the team to beat in the NBA. Barkley argued that the Thunder pose a major problem for opponents because their relentless defense and depth allow them to control games even when star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggles offensively.

Barkley identified offensive rebounding as the decisive factor in the game, specifically praising Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. Holmgren collected 17 rebounds, which Barkley noted created exhausting second-chance opportunities for Oklahoma City while leaving Denver center Nikola Jokic in need of more help on the boards.

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