The Oklahoma City Thunder went through pins and needles last season and eventually ended up falling short of making the playoffs. Was that good or bad?

Without Kevin Durant in tow, the Thunder saw a rough 2014–15 NBA season. Aside from that, there was a point when Russell Westbrook had to endure some bumps and bruises as well. So with the two lead stars out, is it any wonder why the Thunder succumbed last season?

Well, this time around, all that may be charged to experience. The Thunder fell badly and now there is nowhere else to go but up. Aside from a full cast, there have been some changes as well.

Enes Kanter will be entering his first full season as he tries to justify his max contract, which was matched by the Thunder. Serge Ibaka has shown some improvement, adding a long bomb to his offensive prowess.

Dion Waiters as well gets the chance to shoot the lights out from the outside to ease the burden on Durant and Westbrook. And capping all of it is, of course, the change of head coach.

Scott Brooks got the pink slip and in his place is a highly coveted coach in Billy Donovan. Will the former Florida Gators coach make an impact? How will he get along with the pro players, especially Durant and Westbrook?

With a complete and healthy lineup heading into the 2015–16 NBA season, the Thunder could be dark horses in the highly competitive Western Conference. The favorites are, of course, the San Antonio Spurs and the reigning champion Golden State Warriors.

With the odds seemingly built against them, how can Donovan whip up Durant, Westbrook, and the rest to churn out a rebound performance after a faltering year?

Much of that should be answered once tip-off comes in October. Will the Thunder improve on their previous years? Better yet, can they win the NBA title considering they have already made it once in the NBA Finals (2011–12 season)?