OKC Thunder don’t need to tank to optimize draft picks return
By Rylan Stiles
Let’s put all the poker chips in the middle of the table
This is by far some fans’ favorite option. From some ridiculous ideas floating around Thunder twitter of nabbing Devin Booker–Yes, seriously that is a thing–or trying to make a trade for Bradley Beal work, everyone loves the trade market!
We love transitions so much, that ESPN even built a trade machine to live out our weird trade fantasies.
However, there is some validity to these fans clamoring for a trade. It’s the NBA! Even during a global pandemic, we are seeing locker rooms fall apart! Looking at you, Utah.
Sooner or later, an NBA Star will request a trade, and the name of the game is having assets to give up once that happens. Well, for the OKC Thunder that will not be a problem with their treasure trove of draft picks.
The big-name floating around the league right now is Wizards star, Bradley Beal. Despite Beal’s consistent message of commitment to D.C, fans and media alike keep taking him to the trade machine.
light. Related Story. Can Sam Presti strike twice?
No matter who gets thrown onto the market, Sam Presti will be involved. With the lone untouchable on the roster being Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the OKC Thunder can make a ton of big plays with these 15 picks.
Not to mention whatever they eventually get back for CP3, Dennis Schroder, a sign-and-trade with Danilo Gallinari and possibly even Steven Adams.
Past all that, Sam Presti has always looked for his next splash. No sooner did he shock the NBA world and nab Paul George, he did it again by trading-for-and-convincing Carmelo Anthony to join the squad.
Imagine what he can do with a massive amount of assets.