Thunder In the news: A Royal Wedding and a ‘King’ in OKC?

OKC Thunder in the news for May 19th has a royal spin and an insider  suggesting  a ‘King’  could land in Oklahoma.

Beginning at 5:00 a.m. ET viewers witnessed a mixture of Hollywood stars (George and Amal Clooney, Oprah, Idris Elba) and sports stars (David Beckham, Serena Williams) join the British ‘A list for a Royal Wedding.

While writing today’s in the news column awaiting the nuptials of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle it occurred this date could begin and end with a royal tie-in.

King James finals streak in jeopardy:

After seven consecutive trips to the finals LeBron’s streak is in jeopardy of ending. The Celtics took a 2-0 series edge and unless the Cavaliers hold court at home this series might end quickly. Betting against LeBron is not wise, but this is the most vulnerable he’s been since 2009-10. Coincidentally, that was the last time James missed the finals, also at the hands of a Celtic’s squad. This led to the infamous ‘Decision’ and departure to Miami.

Although LeBron James next decision this coming summer will undoubtedly be the focus of free agency, losing to Boston will only serve to amp up presumptions of his exit. More importantly, speculation of James landing spot would run rampant.

LeBron in OKC?

As far fetched as the idea of LeBron James landing with the OKC Thunder sounds that very option was suggested by a source close to the team.  In a question and answer session with Cavaliers beat writer Jason Lloyd on the Athletic he suggested any team is a possibility. More specifically (and interestingly) Lloyd only mentions Rockets and Thunder as potential destinations.

"Thomas J. : If Lebron does leave do you think the Cavs will do a sign and trade? If so, what type of players or package would he garner in a trade?"

"Jason L. @Thomas J. It would depend solely on the team where he’s headed. Clint Capela or Steven Adams makes sense if James wants to go to Houston or OKC to play with Carmelo/Russ. I know I just got done answering a question about Paul coming here, but as we learned in 2010, rule nothing out. Rule no team out. When it comes to LeBron, anything is possible."

This offering from Lloyd is curious and begs the question – why did he suggest those two teams and those two players (Capela/Adams). Logistically, the salary and luxury tax would seemingly make this situation impossible. But, as Lloyd opines, perhaps James would want to play with Westbrook and Anthony.

Grant expresses desire to return:

One free agent who is certain of wanting to return to OKC is Jerami Grant.  The big man was at the combine in Chicago and spoke to Adrian Wojnarowski.

More from Thunderous Intentions

• Stealing one player from every Southwest Division team for the OKC Thunder
• Should the OKC Thunder chase after a disgruntled hometown hero?
• 3 OKC Thunder players who can step up in Aleksej Pokusevski’s absence
• Aleksej Pokusevski sidelined approximately 6 weeks with ankle injury
• Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder

What makes Grant’s sentiments compelling is the additional details he offers. Simply stating he would like to return to the OKC Thunder would be the typical free agent sound bite. However, Grant expresses a desire to return and seemingly indicates a willingness to wait until larger pieces of the puzzle are placed.  Of course those ‘pieces’ would be Paul George and Carmelo Anthony.

Often in free agency the middle tier of talent won’t wait for the top tier of talent to make decisions.  So, Grant’s comments are encouraging.

One fact is certain, Free Agency 2018 may prove to be the craziest ever since both free agents and teams actions will hinge on LeBron James decision.

Suffice to say another Celtic’s victory tonight could seal the ‘King’s’ departure from Cleveland.

That’s it for OKC Thunder in the news on Saturday May 19th. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.