The depth that this OKC Thunder team boasts is truly remarkable and is widely regarded as one of their biggest weapons when squaring off against opposing teams.
However, in only a few months' time, this same strength for Oklahoma City could wind up benefiting a number of teams strewn across the league.
Opposing teams could poach from Thunder depth overflow this summer
As a result of the new CBA, coupled with this past summer's spending spree, Sam Presti and company will likely need to part ways with several of their non-star players simply to duck under the dreaded second apron threshold.
Add on the fact that they'll automatically be forced to make space on their roster for what is currently projected to be an incoming three first-round picks following the 2026 NBA Draft, and it's safe to say that at least a few players will be found departing from the Sooner State this summer, several of whom could prove rather interesting targets for teams looking to address their own rotational needs.
The most oft-buzzed about potential Thunder departee is Isaiah Hartenstein, who, despite playing a pivotal role in the club's successes throughout his two-year tenure with his rebounding skills, shot-swatting prowess, and rock-solid screen setting, will be owed a whopping $28.5 million team option if he were to be held onto for the 2026-27 season.
Considering Oklahoma City is currently on pace to be roughly $24 million over the second apron ($222,372,000), the shedding of I-Hart's deal this offseason appears to be a virtual shoo-in.
Along with the 7-footer, beloved veteran tweener forward Kenrich Williams also has a team option for next year, holding a worth of $7.16 million. Like Hartenstein, parting with Kenny Hustle could be a simple way of helping them shed cap space.
Two other players who, though perhaps not as seamless of axes, could also be at risk of heading out the door are sadly Cason Wallace or Lu Dort, as the front office will likely have to choose between committing to one or the other, with both slated to enter into extension negotiations in the not-too-distant future.
Simply put, no matter what route the Thunder take to opening up roster space this summer, it's all but guaranteed that they'll be forced to let go of at least a few quality talents in the process.
Be it those in need of big man depth (Hartenstein), young prospects with upside (Wallace), or a serious boost in defensive intensity (Dort), opposing ball clubs with the proper cap room should be monitoring OKC closely.