Austin Rivers urges OKC Thunder to use their 2026 pick on a frontcourt star if it lands in the top three

The Thunder hold the Utah Jazz’s (top-8 protected) and Los Angeles Clippers’ (unprotected) 2026 first-round picks. Right now, the Clippers are sitting at 4-10, with their pick projected to be ninth. If it moves into the top three, it goes directly to Oklahoma City.

Speaking on Pablo Torre Finds Out, Austin Rivers shared his thoughts on what Oklahoma City should do if they find themselves with one of those early picks.

“If OKC had a top pick, I would draft Cameron Boozer. They have elite point guards. They have elite shooting guards and small forwards and wings. They have a plethora of those.

“Their issue has always been having size next to Chet because Chet does a lot of things great on the floor, but he doesn’t have that size and weight.

That’s why they went and paid Isaiah Hartenstein. “But if you can get Boozer, then you now have a thoroughbred who has more size, more upside, and has a longer brighter future.

“If anything, you might be able to even get off that Isaiah contract and be able to pay some of these other wings.”

Cameron Boozer player profile

Boozer is projected to go No. 3 in ESPN’s latest 2026 NBA Mock Draft. The 6-9, 250-pound freshman forward for Duke has started the season strong, averaging 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game through his first four appearances.

Boozer stands out as a versatile big who can score from anywhere on the floor. He’s a polished all-around player who contributes to winning and is someone who would fit in perfectly with the Thunder.