The defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder now know their full path for the 2025-26 season. With the schedule officially released, here are the biggest storylines and notable stretches from Jeremie Poplin and Steve McGehee’s Thunder Breakdown discussion.

1. Season Starts with Star Power

The Thunder open at home against the Houston Rockets on Oct. 21, complete with a championship banner ceremony.

Game 2 is on the road against the Indiana Pacers — a rematch of the 2025 NBA Finals.

Both games will be nationally televised.

2. Holiday Highlights

OKC is home for both Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Christmas Day brings the Spurs to Paycom Center, following a Dec. 23 matchup in San Antonio — a potential showcase for Chet Holmgren vs. Victor Wembanyama.

The team will once again play on

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