3 players who should not return to Thunder following dreadful playoff performances
By Mark Nilon
Saturday night, the OKC Thunder saw their record-setting and overall inspirational 2023-24 campaign come to its bitter end, as they were downed by the Dallas Mavericks in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals by a close-knit and controversial final score of 117-116.
Though falling short of advancing beyond round two was certainly not how the franchise and their faithful followers had hoped things would play out, considering just how young Oklahoma City's core is, assuming they keep the vast majority of the team intact moving forward one can only imagine that brighter days are assuredly ahead.
Of course, due to contract details, internal issues, and, ultimately, a handful of necessary shakeups, it's safe to say that at least a few members of this Thunder squad will be found residing outside of the 73102 come 2024-25.
Thunder players who should not return following lowly playoff showings
Who said members might be is truly anyone's guess at this point in time, though, after putting forth rather underwhelming performances this year, particularly during the playoffs, there are a few names, in specific, many should assume will not be making their way back next season.
Kenrich Williams
To be fair, Kenrich Williams never really got a true shot to show his worth during this year's playoff run, as he saw just seven games of action during Oklahoma City's two-round excursion and received over five minutes played just twice throughout.
Nevertheless, during the moments in which he did see run on the hardwood, two things were proven to be indisputable: His offensive game was virtually nonexistent and his defensive expertise out on the wing is somewhat of a redundancy on this roster.
Throughout the playoffs, Williams went on to total just four points, eight rebounds, one steal, and three fouls and made just two of his eight attempts.
Despite his proven track record both in the past and, frankly, even during this playoff run of providing highly valuable energy to the rotation, it's clear that coach Mark Daigneault would prefer to shell out minutes to guys like Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe, Cason Wallace, and Aaron Wiggins in a role that Kenny Hustle plays, and all of whom provide far more upside on the offensive side of the ball.
Because of this, be it just or not, Williams is a player who very likely will be found on the chopping block this offseason.