Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s credentials speak for themselves – at deafening decibels. He has finished in the top five MVPs in each of the last two seasons, including a runner-up finish last year. At the age of 25, he already received two cameo appearances in the All-NBA first team.

The list of other active players who have achieved the same feat reads like a who’s who of megastars: Luka Dončić (five times), Kevin Durant (five), LeBron James (four), Anthony Davis (three) , Jayson Tatum (three), Giannis Antetokounmpo (two), James Harden (two), Nikola Jokić (two) and Kawhi Leonard (two).

Playing at this level and at this age gives SGA an open window for the singles title. And luckily for him, the Oklahoma City Thunder operate on the same indeterminate timeline.

Established co-stars are pretty much a staple for any championship team. Oklahoma City might be a little behind here.

Both Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren are on this path. Will they reach this status in time?

Because any of them could take over the title next season. And both were damn close last year.

No one should have to hear this, but the Thunder can win the whole damn thing next season. Isaiah Hartenstein covers some of their biggest gaps, Alex Caruso increases the halfcourt spacing and bolsters an already excellent perimeter defense, and Oklahoma City has both the active depth and tools to do more when needed.

No team in the league is in a better position to ever hang a banner in the next few years. And their unmatched title window makes SGA a pretty easy pick at No. 1 — unless you’re absolutely certain one of the previous names will nab a ring next year.