3 Moves the Thunder must make after signing Isaiah Hartenstein
By Mark Nilon
2. Explore legitimate power forward options
Though there is a chance the Thunder could opt to start Hartenstein at center and, in turn, slide Chet Holmgren up to the four, as we've witnessed throughout the 2023-24 campaign, coach Mark Daigneault loves to run the reigning Rookie of the Year runner up as the team's primary pivot.
Because of this, they very well could have their newly-signed big serve as a reserve to have as the primary back up for the 7-foot-1 youngster.
Measuring in at 6-foot-5, 211 pounds, the budding star 22-year-old has an ideal build for a two or a three in the association, while his accompanying play style only strengthens the notion that he belongs out on the wing rather than stationed at power forward.
Because of this, it may be mightily beneficial for Presti and co. to explore both the remaining players left on the free agency market, as well as the trade block, in search of a legitimate four to help better fill out the Thunder's starting unit and allow Williams to play his more natural position.
Easily the biggest name that Oklahoma City fans have been clamoring to see don the orange, blue, and yellow threads is Utah Jazz All-Star Lauri Markkanen, who, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, may be more available than some may believe.
Of course, a player of his ilk will be heavily sought after by a boatload of rival clubs across the association, thus meaning it would cost quite a pretty penny to attain his services via trade and, in theory, could leave him out of their desired price range.
Should they prefer to go this route, perhaps a player like Brooklyn Nets veteran Dorian Finney-Smith could be a realistic and cost-effective option worthy of strong consideration. Of course, still available in free agency are a number of solid power forward talents such as Kyle Anderson and Taurean Prince who could also be serviceable options to pursue as well.