OKC Thunder: The 5 early signs the team’s goal of tanking is working

Goal No. 3: Obtain more first-round draft picks than players on the roster

One of the best litmus tests of a tanking team is how many draft picks they accumulate. In that regard, Sam Presti has broken the previous record and set an entirely new standard for how to start a rebuild.

The Paul George trade began the process. But, Presti was equally successful in his efforts when he brought in Chris Paul with picks and swaps for Russell Westbrook. That CP3 delivered a resurgent season enabling the GM the opportunity to flip him for more picks and assets that also became picks was brilliant foresight with some great luck mixed in.

Presti’s work this offseason was nothing short of spectacular. There were days TI couldn’t even keep up with the trades the GM was moving new assets so quickly. Danny Green, Kelly Oubre, and James Johnson were all moved as quickly as they were obtained.

As the club begins the season they hold 18 potential first-round draft picks over the next seven seasons. Factor in the potential for the Thunder to move Ariza, Hill, and potentially some others at the trade deadline to bolster the coffers. Plus a season of Al Horford channeling an effort similar to Chris Paul’s last campaign and suddenly the GM is looking at the potential of having over 20 first-round draft picks. UNPRECEDENTED!