The OKC Thunder are starting a new chapter in their journey to the NBA’s promised land. The team appears to have something they didn’t have last year.

On Friday, the OKC Thunder had their 2016-17 media day. A first-hand look at the team and its new players. In most cases, it’s just the usual picture taking, taking questions about the season, and giving the media a solid before training camp begins.

However, things we’re different with the Thunder this season. There wasn’t any anxiety in the building. Throughout the halls of Chesapeake Energy Arena, you could hear guys laughing, joking, and signing.

The upbeat feeling that seemed to be in the hearts of every player was different than years past. It almost seemed that a weight was lifted from the team’s shoulders following the departure of Kevin Durant.

Naturally, you would expect Steven Adams and Enes Kanter to put on a show for the media and the fans watching on twitter or on the Thunder website. However, you wouldn’t expect for Russell Westbrook or Victor Oladipo to join in on the fun.

Even Mitch McGary joked with the media, saying “I bet you guys can’t wait to talk to me.”

McGary was referencing his recent troubles with the NBA’s drug policy that resulting in a 15-game suspension.

The mood was light, and the Thunder seem like a close knit family. The question going forward will be: Are the Thunder a group of guys that genuinely like each other? Or are the destined to implode during the regular season.

My gut tells me they are a tight group of guys who respect and like each other. On October 3rd, the OKC Thunder will travel to Spain to take on Real Madrid.

This will be a great chance for the team to become even more united prior to the regular season. Here are five takeaways from media day last Friday.