The Oklahoma City Thunder are currently favored to win in the Western Conference, but their recent NBA Cup defeat against the Milwaukee Bucks exposed significant weaknesses in the team. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has proven himself as an MVP contender, the presence of a reliable co-star remains uncertain. Jalen Williams has displayed flashes of brilliance but struggled during crucial moments, notably in the previous season’s loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Despite improving as a higher-volume 3-point shooter this season, Williams faced challenges in crucial games, averaging 18.7 points per game on 44% true shooting. His difficulties in creating space for quality shots were evident in the championship game against tough defenders like AJ Green and Gary Trent.
Gilgeous-Alexander also faced obstacles, scoring 21 points on 24 shots, with Andre Jackson effectively limiting his impact. While Gilgeous-Alexander has demonstrated his ability to shine on big stages, Williams is still developing at 23 years old in his third season. With impressive stats of 21/6/5 and versatile defense, Williams shows potential for becoming an All-Star player. The question remains whether he can evolve into a more consistent star player by the upcoming spring.
The Thunder’s lack of consistent secondary shot creation was evident in their defeat, raising doubts about their championship prospects. Some fans attribute the poor shooting night against the Bucks to an anomaly, but the team’s overall 3-point shooting ranks 19th in the league. The Bucks’ defensive strategy effectively prevented SGA and Williams from penetrating, highlighting the Thunder’s need for more offensive options. The discussion raises the possibility of the Thunder exploring trade opportunities to bolster their roster.
General Manager Sam Presti possesses a wealth of draft picks, offering the flexibility to pursue trades for impactful players. The decision to make a move remains uncertain, as Presti previously prioritized patience and acquired a veteran player in Gordon Hayward, who ultimately retired. Addressing the team’s needs for size, the Thunder recently acquired Isaiah Harten. Moving forward, the team faces the critical decision of whether to make a significant trade to enhance their championship aspirations.
Stein. And someone better than Giddey was needed, so they flipped him for Caruso. This season, it’s looking quite obvious the Thunder need more shooting. Some more size would be nice too. And maybe a backup spark plug scoring guard could help provide the support that SGA needs. I don’t think there’s any question that Presti needs to move on some of his picks and consolidate existing players on the roster. Seven players I’d try to target: Herb Jones, Pelicans: Reports say that New Orleans isn’t willing to trade Herb. But untouchable? Doubt it. The Thunder have enough picks to make anyone change their mind, and Herb is the type of all-world defender who’d give them size to complement their more perimeter-oriented stoppers. Pascal Siakam, Pacers: Siakam would provide championship pedigree, shot creation, and size on defense. The Pacers just traded for him less than a year ago, but considering how the franchise has taken steps back maybe they’d be more willing to take multiple role players and a pile of draft picks. John Collins, Jazz: Collins is averaging 18 points and nearly having a 50-40-90 season by shooting 53.4% from the field, 43.6% from 3, and 88.8% from the line. Collins would be insurance if Holmgren can’t get back healthy, and they could play together even if he comes back better than ever. Collin Sexton, Jazz: By no means is Sexton the biggest name, but he provides a spark any time the ball is in his hands and he’s a good shooter off the catch. At age 25, he’d fit OKC’s timeline too. Larry Nance, Hawks: Nance is a do-it-all forward/big who can defend on the perimeter, offer some rim protection, shoot, facilitate, and finish lobs. He’s not great in any one category, which is why he’s a career rotation player. But OKC could use him in a ton of different roles depending on the series. Cam Johnson, Nets: At 6-foot-8, Johnson is a knockdown movement shooter who’s making 43.3% of his 3s this season. He’s not a lockdown defender, but he at least would provide some needed size. Cam Thomas, Nets: Some scoring support behind SGA would be a nice additive piece, just in case Williams doesn’t become the man by the playoffs. Thomas hasn’t done zilch in the postseason, but he’s a bonafide bucket-getter who shines when given the opportunity. The Thunder’s future is undeniably bright, but championship windows are fragile. A single injury, unexpected chemistry issues, or missteps in roster building can close it quicker than expected. Look no further than the 2010s Thunder team with Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden.
