This is another significant transaction involving a rumor that NBA executives are reportedly expecting a Thunder trade, but the rumor is not producing any results.
The NBA has not even begun its Christmas Day games, and already, trade chatter around Oklahoma City is all the rage. Once again, the Thunder’s youthful core is performing above expectations, and many are wondering if the front office will fully commit. If Sam Presti decides to go, Oklahoma City may have a window of opportunity to win the championship if it opens.
Presti has insisted on exercising patience. The squad’s sub-.500 record was sufficient for Presti to allow the team to finish this season and progress according to plan. The team finished 40–42 the previous season and sneaked into the play-in round.
However, a year later, the team is second in the Western Conference with a strong contender for MVP and the clear favorite for Rookie of the Year. Preserving the core in Oklahoma City for future generations is, of course, the primary objective. However, it might just pay off if the Thunder could pull off a deal in a year where the race to the finish line is quite competitive.
Now that the team is winning, many in the league are not buying into Presti’s patience, according to Yahoo Sports reporter Jake Fischer.
“Many people have told me that is exactly the reverse of what they are going to do (be patient).” They are operating behind the scenes, even if they claim to be functioning publicly,” Fischer added. This is all still very early in the process, so who can say for sure until the trade calls actually take place? It is difficult to predict with certainty how the Thunder will function at this time.
“I can assure you that every executive from a rival team with whom I have met is fully ready for Oklahoma City to take that action. since at the moment they are ranked second in the Western Conference. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a worthy contender for MVP. I think Chet Holmgren deserves to be named Rookie of the Year. Too many people are anticipating that the Thunder will sniff around, and with all of their draft selections, this is a fantastic time for them to add someone.”
Lauri Markkanen has been mentioned most frequently among the other names that have been suggested. The Thunder has a strong argument for making the most alluring offer if any NBA team decides to make a deal. Presti would be difficult to beat with a wealth of first round picks and a few intriguing talents on the squad.
It feels like the quiet before the storm right now. But things may get hot quickly if executives from other companies are already anticipating that the Thunder will be active.
