The 2025 NBA trade deadline has already seen numerous franchise players moved, such as Luka Doncic, Anthony Davis, and De’Aaron Fox. The arms race is only ramping up with names like Kevin Durant and Jimmy Butler on the block.
It’s highly unlikely that the OKC Thunder will join the fray by cashing in assets for an All-Star given their record, team chemistry, and Sam Presti’s cautious nature. However, based on recent events, Oklahoma City is clearly looking to tinker with the margins and improve its draft capital outlook.
Following their pick-swap exchange with the Hornets earlier this week, ESPN NBA Insider Shams Charania broke the news on Wednesday that the Thunder will be acquiring Daniel Theis and draft compensation from the New Orleans Pelicans.
The New Orleans Pelicans are trading center Daniel Theis and draft compensation to the Oklahoma City Thunder, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/Ey3XKVHv48
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 5, 2025
Grading the Daniel Theis trade for the New Orleans Pelicans
The only reason New Orleans made this trade was because of its financial impact. The Pelicans were $1.4 million above the luxury tax before striking on this trade. They now sit just below the threshold and save cash, which was their priority entering the deadline.
Given NOLA owns a 12-38 record and has both Dejounte Murray and Herb Jones sidelined with season-ending injuries, it’s a logical decision to dump the 32-year-old Theis and his expiring $2.1 million deal.
While the Pelicans successfully ducked below the tax, it cost them draft capital to accomplish this feat as they parted with a 2031 second-round pick in the exchange as well.
Still, getting below the dreaded luxury tax alone should be seen as a huge accomplishment for the franchise.
Grade: B+
Grading the Daniel Theis trade for the OKC Thunder
If the Thunder opt to keep Daniel Theis, they have added a capable fourth-string center to have as injury insurance through the rest of the regular season and playoffs.
The veteran has some passing chops, rebounds well, and is a slightly below-average defender. Theis won’t post any highlights but can play a few minutes in a pinch without being a complete liability.
It’s more likely that the Thunder release Theis, though. Branden Carlson’s superior three-point shooting and rim protection make him a better depth option for OKC’s style of play. They could also use the roster spot to target another big like Larry Nance Jr or a guard like Chris Paul.
Whether the Thunder keep Theis or waive him, they essentially picked up free draft compensation. As things currently stand, there appears to be no real downside to this move for OKC.
Grade: A-