The Oklahoma City Thunder have arrived. They are loaded with young talent and already near the top of the conference standings. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is in the MVP race with Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams quickly becoming stars. The Thunder are primed to be in contention for years to come, but they could upgrade their roster further this summer.
OKC will have cap space this summer and still own a mountain of draft picks. They could trade for any available player. It is all on Sam Presti to make the right move that vaults the Thunder into the title picture. They have multiple avenues to explore, but expect them to improve their roster this summer.
If Oklahoma City decides to add in free agency, they will have around $27 million to spend. Presti and his front office could easily create more if the right player comes along, but who could they add?
7. Gordon Hayward
The Thunder traded for Hayward just before the deadline. It cost them Tre Mann, Vasilije Micic, Davis Bertans, cash, and two second-round draft picks. The franchise did not pay a massive price. His expiring contract played a factor, but Oklahoma City is not short on draft capital. They could have acquired anyone. Presti and the front office chose Hayward.
The veteran is playing just 15 minutes per game in his first eight contests with OKC. He was coming off a significant injury, but both parties were likely hoping for more. Hayward has not averaged fewer than 28 minutes per game since his rookie season in 2011. His role could expand down the stretch and into the playoffs, but there are no guarantees.
The Thunder can let Gordon Hayward walk in free agency, but they want talent on their roster to chase a championship. Do they see a stronger fit on the open market? They will have options in free agency.