5 Josh Giddey replacements the Thunder should try to acquire this summer
By Tyler Watts
1. Donovan Mitchell
The five-time All-Star has one season plus a player option remaining on his contract this summer as he becomes extension-eligible. Cleveland will offer a max deal, but does Mitchell accept? If not, the Cavaliers must explore his trade market. They cannot afford to lose him for nothing, especially after giving up a massive haul to acquire him.
The rumors are swirling. Mitchell will control the deal as signing long-term in his new city gets the Cavaliers a lot more in return. Does the five-time All-Star want to come to Oklahoma City to join the best young core in the NBA? He will have options, but the Thunder should be under serious consideration.
It would cost Josh Giddey and some significant draft capital to land Mitchell. It only makes sense if he is willing to sign a four-year max contract. The Thunder would get expensive quickly, but this move gives them all the pieces of a title-contending roster in 2025 and beyond.
Do the Oklahoma City Thunder go star hunting this offseason? They have the assets to make any trade, but are they better with a fourth top-end talent or just role players who complement Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren? Fans can be certain Sam Presti has a plan, so stay tuned to see what the Thunder make happen this summer.