Pre-Draft Outlook
The youngest team to earn a No. 1 seed in NBA history, Oklahoma City acquitted itself well in the postseason, falling short in a competitive series to a dynamic Dallas Mavericks team. Along the way, some of the Thunder’s weaknesses were exposed. Especially at guard, where Josh Giddey was removed from the starting lineup on two occasions. Giddey is a solid player with a bright future. So, OKC will continue to develop Giddey as opposed to panicking and jettisoning him out of town. The team’s strong young core and war chest of assets puts it in a position to be flexible in this Draft with no trepidation about how it will affect a blindingly bright immediate future.
The Way to Go
Five years later, OKC can use this 12th pick it received through the 2019 deal that sent Russell Westbrook to Houston for Chris Paul. Wouldn’t it be fun for the Thunder to add the younger brother of budding star Jalen Williams to the mix? Cody Williams is taller than his brother with a 6-foot-8 frame and 7-foot-1 wingspan, and considered one of the best defenders of the 2024 Draft class, not to mention a capable 3-point shooter. He seems like the type of prospect coveted by executive vice president and general manager Sam Presti. Eighteen-year-old Frenchman Tidjane Salaun is also an intriguing prospect who could fit a need.
— Michael C. Wright
Here’s a quick look at Oklahoma City’s current roster entering the Draft:
Under Contract
G: Alex Caruso
G: Luguentz Dort
G: Adam Flagler
G: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
G: Cason Wallace
G/F: Jalen Williams
G/F: Kenrich Williams
F: Ousmane Dieng
F: Jaylin Williams
C/F: Chet Holmgren
C: Olivier Sarr
Free Agents
G: Isaiah Joe
G: Aaron Wiggins
F: Gordon Hayward
F: Keyontae Johnson
F: Lindy Waters III
F/C: Mike Muscala
C: Bismack Biyombo
> 2024 Free Agent Tracker