3 takeaways from Mark Daigneault as Thunder await next opponent

As the Oklahoma City Thunder await their second-round opponent, head coach Mark Daigneault continues to emphasize consistency, adaptability, and player growth, pillars that have guided OKC’s rise this season.

1. Jalen Williams and Isaiah Joe Are Quietly Becoming Complete Two-Way Players

Daigneault had high praise for both Jalen Williams and Isaiah Joe, not just for their playoff production, but for their development throughout the season.

“Dub got his creation in, he was efficient. I thought he passed the ball really well as a creator,” Daigneault said of Williams. “And then he continues to defend premier players... consistently great in that series.”

On Joe, it’s more than just shooting. His instincts and willingness to scrap have earned trust.

“Minimal coaching—he’s got a good nose for the ball, he’s a good rebounder for his size,” Daigneault said. “You can keep him out there because of all the other things he does.”

2. Thunder Thrive Amid Physical Play, As Long as It’s Consistent

With postseason intensity rising, Daigneault acknowledged the increase in physicality—but stressed that the team doesn’t mind as long as the whistle is fair.

“We really don’t care to be honest with you. We just want it to be fair and consistent,” he said. “If they're allowing a lot of physicality, we’ll adjust. Just give us clarity.”

Daigneault also noted that certain rules (like defensive three seconds and flops) are almost ceremonial now: “There’s some rules that seem dormant… but again, as long as they’re consistent with it, we don’t really care.”

3. Preparation Is Internal And Intentional

Even as they wait to scout a second-round opponent, OKC is focusing inward—sticking to foundational habits and structure.

“Still working on ourselves,” Daigneault said. “We don’t want to make assumptions. There’s enough fundamentals that are going to matter no matter what.”

What’s helped OKC manage tight turnarounds? A strong internal culture.

“The personality of the team goes a long way. And then the consistency of the environment,” he explained. “We’ve found a comfort with how we prepare... and part of that is not getting too deep too early.”

video courtesy of Thunder