Don't look now, but OKC Thunder hit Phil Jackson's litmus test for NBA title contenders

Phil Jackson would be proud. And perhaps a little confused.

A year after the young Thunder was booted from the play-in, it’s tied atop the Western Conference. Sunday’s 123-110 win at Houston meant OKC advanced to 40-17 this season, which meant it officially passed Jackson’s litmus test for contenders: Win 40 games before losing 20.

The win gave the Thunder the longest winning streak in the NBA at five straight games. Coming back from a once 16-point deficit in the second quarter meant it was also the team’s 12th comeback win after trailing by double digits, a league best.

All it did was add a game changing two-way center in Chet Holmgren. And enjoy MVP-caliber play from its star guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. And see a healthy Year 2 leap from its next-best scorer, Jalen Williams. And nurture some of the league’s most contract-friendly, effective role players.

It’s been a process. But after several seasons of an ugly retool, the Thunder has completely shifted its expectations and put the league on notice.

Forty wins in and just a couple games removed from the All-Star break, it’s probably safe for those praying for a return to the postseason to quit holding their breath.

More: Wizards GM Will Dawkins shaped by time with OKC Thunder: 'Strong place in my heart'

Thunder vs. Rockets

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This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC Thunder hit Phil Jackson's litmus test for NBA title contenders