In just a couple of years, the OKC Thunder and the rest of the NBA could experience a seismic shakeup. The league's expansion plans are gaining momentum, and in 2028, an expansion draft could be in order.
The latest mock expansion draft was published by Bleacher Report, and a familiar Thunder face was the headliner. Sharpshooter Jared McCain was projected to go first overall to the Las Vegas Vipers. If that happens, it would make the development of one of OKC's exciting young rookies all the more imperative.
This offseason, the Thunder trimmed some fat by trading away Aaron Wiggins, Isaiah Joe, and Lu Dort. As a result, they're left somewhat vulnerable at shooting guard, as only Jared McCain stands to back up likely starter Cason Wallace on the perimeter.
However, Bennett Stirtz could find himself on an unexpected path toward a sizable role on the team earlier than expected in his pro career.
Thunder's exportation of talent makes Stirtz' develpment essential
Before OKC shed its perimeter depth, there was little to no room for a new face to emerge. Now, their first-round draft pick has a prime opportunity to entrench himself in the 2026-27 rotation.
What he does with the immediate opportunity remains to be seen, but a potential expansion draft could make his development essential to the organization's future.
If McCain gets selected, Stirtz would likely be expected to step up and fill his role. As of now, there seems to be a limited number of players in the second unit who are capable of knocking down shots from deep.
Alex Caruso has found his niche as a defensive skeleton key, and budding star Ajay Mitchell will presumably run the point.
Therefore, OKC will need someone to run around off the ball.
Stirtz will need to improve his three-point shooting, but as a first-year man, he has as good a shot as anyone to make the jump and become another sharpshooting threat.
Over the past half-decade or so, GM Sam Presti has built the Western Conference juggernaut on unmatched depth, but second apron threats have begun to weaken that strength.
That's why this year's draft and the drafts to follow are so important. Beginning with Stirtz and fellow first-rounder Aday Mara, rookies will be expected to fill the shoes of more expensive veterans that OKC is forced to say goodbye to in order to avoid financial penalties.
The expansion prospects only further that challenge. Because of his favorable contract, Stirtz will be one of the most important players to watch over the coming years.
His development will likely determine whether a player like Jared McCain is expendable or irreplaceable.
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