Thunderous Intentions
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3 OKC Thunder players Sam Presti could move to reduce luxury tax

By Lawrence George

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 18: The Oklahoma City Thunder play the Utah Jazz during the second half of game 2 of the Western Conference playoffs at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on April 18, 2018 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** ;
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 18: The Oklahoma City Thunder play the Utah Jazz during the second half of game 2 of the Western Conference playoffs at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on April 18, 2018 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** ; /
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OKC Thunder
WASHINGTON, DC – FEBRUARY 13: Kyle Singler /

Kyle Singler

Prior to his arrival in Oklahoma City, Kyle Singler averaged 7.9 points and 3.2 rebounds in 25 minutes per game for the Detroit Pistons. At the time, the former Blue Devil was seen as a long-term back-up for All Star Kevin Durant. The Thunder consequently signed him to a four-year, 20-million-dollar extension.

But that’s when it all went downhill.

One season into his deal, his play rapidly declined. He fouled at an alarming rate and couldn’t hit the side of a barn from beyond the arc. In what was seen as a bargain deal quickly became dead money. Singler was virtually immovable and OKC couldn’t find a trade partner without surrendering a future first-round pick.

Finally, Singler’s deal is coming to an end. He is guaranteed almost five-million-dollars this season but is team controlled next year. Unless teams want him for a veteran presence, he is likely to be waived making his contract an expiring one.

Clubs seeking assets like the Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks are logical destinations as they have the necessary space to absorb his deal without sending back salary. Attaching Singler with a future second-round pick ought to get the deal done. This allows the Thunder to save almost $31-million-dollars.

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