Shai Gilgeous-Alexander trade and 13 other genius Thunder moves Sam Presti nailed
By Tyler Watts
10. Trading for Paul George
The Thunder took a massive risk in 2017 when they acquired George. He was already a four-time All-Star and one of the best two-way wings in the NBA. There was no questioning his talent or production, but PG-13 made it clear he would play out the final season of his contract with the Pacers before becoming a free agent.
He wanted to return home to LA, but the Thunder took their chance to get a star.
Oklahoma City gave up Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis to make the trade. George was on an expiring contract, but it was a massive win that Presti kept his draft capital out of the deal. Oladipo blossomed into a two-time All-Star in Indiana, but the Pacers never advanced beyond the first round of the playoffs. Sabonis also became a star and was the key piece in the Pacers landing Tyrese Haliburton.
George gave the Thunder a second star to pair with Russell Westbrook and year one convinced him to sign a long-term contract. He only lasted two seasons in Oklahoma City, but trading PG-13 on a multi-year deal set the Thunder up for their current run. This was a crucial move and one of Presti’s best, despite Paul George’s short stay with the franchise.