3 Oklahoma City Thunder trades to get Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a co-star
By Jack Simone
3 Oklahoma City Thunder trades to get Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a co-star: OG Anunoby
At this year’s trade deadline, the Toronto Raptors reportedly wanted three first-round picks in exchange for OG Anunoby. The Oklahoma City Thunder are in a perfect position to give them that package.
This past season, the Thunder were sneakily a solid defense. Well-coached with Mark Daigneault at the helm, their team-defense approach saw them finish with the 13th-best defensive rating (113.2).
Adding OG Anunoby to that mix (not to mention Chet Holmgren) could turn a decent defensive unit into one of the best in the league. As Oklahoma City grows into their shell, they’ll need an identity. Defense could be their identity.
Some may not think of the word “star” when they hear Anunoby’s name, but he is absolutely that. Not only was he an All-Defensive Second Team player this past year, but he also put up great scoring numbers on solid efficiency.
On an Oklahoma City team where he could not only have more freedom but also more responsibilities, there’s reason to believe he could grow even more on the offensive end. Especially considering he’ll be just 26 years old heading into next season.
If this sort of offer is still on the table from the Raptors, then the Thunder should jump at the chance to make it this summer. They have so many draft picks that giving up three shouldn’t matter much.
Getting Anunoby to pair with Gilgeous-Alexander would be well worth the investment.
Potential Thunder starting lineup: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Josh Giddey, Jalen Williams, OG Anunoby, Chet Holmgren.
Editors note: I do not think either side does this deal.