Thunder GM Sam Presti expects OKC to be 'exceptional' team even after major offseason moves
- On Thursday, Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti acknowledged the team will have a different makeup this season, noting the loss of about 10,000 minutes combined from departed players over the last two years.
- To avoid the NBA's second apron—a strict payroll threshold above the luxury tax—the Thunder traded longtime starter Luguentz Dort and key reserves Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins, acquiring seven second-round selections in the process.
- Two-Time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains the centerpiece, averaging 31.1 points per game and shooting 55.3%, while All-Star Jalen Williams returns and forward Chet Holmgren earned All-NBA and All-Defensive honors for the first time.
- With training camp approaching, Presti emphasized adopting a beginner's mindset, warning that net ratings and player statistics are expected to decline as the Thunder cannot predetermine how the year will unfold.
- The organization is well-positioned for long-term success, with recent NBA changes aligning the league's golden era to coincide with the franchise's 25th year in Oklahoma City in 2033 as it pursues a second title in three seasons.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Winnipeg Free Press
Thunder GM Sam Presti expects OKC to be 'exceptional' team even after major offseason moves
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