OKC Thunder GM, Sam Presti post draft presser – sounding like ‘scared money’

Asked about his rumored desire to cut salary:

More from Thunder Draft

• OKC Thunder fans should keep tabs on the NBL Blitz showcase
• Alex Sarr steals the show at G-League showcase
• 3 OKC Thunder players who benefit from the 23 Draft class
• Winners and Losers from the 2023 NBA Draft
• OKC Thunder steal one of the best stories of the NBA Draft at pick 50

Presti gave a highly political and vague answer. Using all his typical deflection and double sided answers he stated of course finances are a part of the big picture and how last season was different because they wanted to retain Paul George and Jerami Grant. He also stated the current model isn’t sustainable (i.e. luxury taxes).

So what is it, Sam? Are you dedicated for the Thunder to win in your two superstars primes? Something he no doubt committed to when retaining George. Or, is the team in that unsustainable period where they need to economize and downsize assets to get below the luxury tax? You can’t have it both ways! Especially with a coach who refuses to dedicate playing time to the young (economical) talent.

If I’d been in the room I would’ve countered back and said “so have we entered the scared money phase?”