OKC Thunder: 5 key takeaways from Sam Presti media call

Billy Donovan:

The GM was asked about Billy Donovan‘s future with the club with Presti citing the coach’s excellent performance over five seasons. Notably, he held off definitively saying “we want him back” using his typical GM speak stating they would have that conversation when its time.

I found Presti’s response a bit intriguing. Sure, the GM always holds his cards close to the vest but the wording here was interesting. Recalling last summer after yet another first-round exit Presti seemed more upbeat in his answer regarding Donovan.

At the time, the fan base was calling for Donovan’s head as it seemed clear he couldn’t coach a star-studded team. Or perhaps the better way to look at that is the stars on the team wouldn’t allow Billy to coach them.

Granted, his contract was already in place for one more season so firing him would’ve meant paying out his contract.

Yet, given how the team has exceeded expectations this season it’s odd Presti wasn’t more definitive in his response. The fact no extension seems to be on the table is also perplexing and leads me to believe this isn’t going to be a rubber-stamped re-sign.

Perhaps he’s hedging his bets in terms of waiting to see how the team performs in the postseason. Even if Presti wants to re-sign him, negotiations will need to occur so staying mum gives him leverage in those matters.