How Sam Presti Really Constructed 2025 Oklahoma City Thunder

On July 2019, the Oklahoma City Thunder acquired Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from the Los Angeles Clippers as part of a blockbuster trade that sent Paul George to L.A. The Thunder received Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, and a haul of draft picks, including multiple unprotected first-rounders. At the time, SGA was a promising rookie, but few anticipated the meteoric rise he would experience in Oklahoma City. 

By the 2024-25 season, Gilgeous-Alexander had blossomed into the league MVP, averaging 32.7 points per game during the regular season and 31.4 in the Western Conference Finals. His leadership and clutch performances have been instrumental in propelling the Thunder to the NBA Finals, solidifying his status as a top-two player in the NBA alongside Nikola Jokic. 

Jalen Williams (2022 NBA Draft)

Jalen Williams was selected 12th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Thunder, using a pick acquired from the Clippers in the same trade that brought in Gilgeous-Alexander. Coming out of Santa Clara, Williams was considered a mid-to-late first-round prospect, but the Thunder saw potential in his versatility and two-way play. 

Williams quickly outperformed expectations, becoming a key contributor and earning All-Star honors in the 2024-25 season after posting 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively has made him an indispensable part of the Thunder's core, complementing Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren effectively.

Chet Holmgren (2022 NBA Draft)

The Thunder selected Chet Holmgren with the second overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. Despite missing his entire rookie season due to injury, Holmgren returned in the 2023-24 season and made an immediate impact with his unique combination of size, shooting, and shot-blocking ability. This season, Holmgren posted 15.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. 

His presence in the paint and ability to stretch the floor have been crucial in the Thunder's deep playoff run, and the big man could just be getting started with a Defensive Player of the Year trophy and All-Star appearance seeming very likely in his future. 

Luguentz Dort (2019 Free Agency)

Undrafted in 2019, Luguentz Dort signed a two-way contract with the Thunder and quickly proved his worth with tenacious defense and physicality, giving James Harden major problems in the 2020 Playoffs. Recognizing his value, the Thunder signed him to a multiyear deal. 

Dort's defensive prowess, particularly on the perimeter, has been a cornerstone of the Thunder's identity, often tasked with guarding the opposing team's best scorer. Dort finished 4th in DPOY voting this season and made the All-NBA Defensive First Team.

Isaiah Hartenstein (2024 Free Agency)

In the 2024 offseason, the Thunder signed Isaiah Hartenstein to a three-year, $87 million deal, adding size and experience to their frontcourt. Many thought that the Thunder had overpaid, but Presti noticed Holmgren needed help around the rim and they made sure the former Knicks center got his money to come to Oklahoma City. 

Hartenstein's ability to protect the rim, rebound, and facilitate from the high post has provided the Thunder with a reliable presence in the paint, complementing Holmgren's skill set. The big man posted impressive averages of 11.2 points and 10.7 rebounds per game this season. To his credit, Hartenstein’s push shot around the rim is also one of the best in the NBA and he hits it time and time again.

Cason Wallace (2023 NBA Draft)

The Thunder traded up to select Cason Wallace with the 10th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Known for his defensive intensity and basketball IQ, Wallace has contributed significantly off the bench, providing energy and stability in the backcourt. 

His development has been a testament to the Thunder's emphasis on drafting high-character, versatile players. Wallace posted 8.4 points and 3.4 rebounds per game on 35.6% from three, and his growth defensively has been particularly impressive to watch. 

Alex Caruso (Trade With Bulls)

In a strategic move to bolster their defense and veteran leadership, the Thunder acquired Alex Caruso from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Josh Giddey in 2024. Caruso's championship experience with the Lakers alongside LeBron James and his defensive acumen have been invaluable, particularly in high-pressure playoff situations, where his ability to disrupt opposing offenses has shone. 

Today, Thunder fans are still thanking the heavens for being able to cheer Caruso as he dives for loose balls and comes up with key defensive plays time and time again. If Caruso does win another NBA title, he will be following the same mold as players such as Jrue Holiday and Danny Green who just know how to make their team win. 

Isaiah Joe (2022 Free Agency)

After being waived by the Philadelphia 76ers, Isaiah Joe signed with the Thunder and quickly became one of the league's most efficient three-point shooters. Recognizing his value, the Thunder secured him on a four-year, $48 million deal in 2024. 

Joe's shooting has been a critical component of the Thunder's spacing and offensive success. The sharpshooter posted 10.2 points per game on 41.2% from three this season, impressive numbers.

Aaron Wiggins (2021 NBA Draft)

Selected 55th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft, Aaron Wiggins has developed into a reliable role player for the Thunder. His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, and his energy off the bench provides a spark for the team.

Posting 12.0 points and 3.9 rebounds per game on 38.3% from deep this season, Wiggins' progression exemplifies the Thunder's ability to identify and develop talent beyond the lottery.

Kenrich Williams (4-Team Trade)

Acquired in the 2020 offseason, Kenrich Williams has been a steadying presence for the Thunder. His hustle, defensive versatility, and unselfish play have made him a fan favorite and a valuable contributor to the team's culture and success. Anytime Williams hits the court, Thunder fans know he will give it his all at any point.

Jaylin Williams (2022 NBA Draft)

Drafted 34th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, Jaylin Williams has provided depth in the frontcourt with his physical play and rebounding. His willingness to do the dirty work and his high basketball IQ have earned him a consistent role in the rotation and another fan-favorite. 

Nikola Topic (2024 NBA Draft)

The Thunder selected Serbian point guard Nikola Topic with the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Although he missed the 2024-25 season due to an ACL injury, Topic is expected to bring playmaking and size to the backcourt upon his return, adding another dynamic to the Thunder's already potent lineup. 

Ajay Mitchell (2024 NBA Draft)

Ajay Mitchell was selected 38th overall by the Thunder in the 2024 NBA Draft. Known for his scoring ability and court vision, Mitchell is viewed as a developmental prospect with the potential to contribute in the future.

Ousmane Dieng (2022 NBA Draft)

The Thunder acquired Ousmane Dieng in the 2022 NBA Draft, trading multiple picks to secure the 11th overall selection. Dieng’s length and versatility on both ends of the floor make him a high-upside project, and the Thunder are investing in his development as part of their long-term vision.

Dillon Jones (2024 NBA Draft)

Dillon Jones was selected 26th overall by the Thunder in the 2024 NBA Draft. His all-around game and physicality are expected to add depth to the roster, with the potential to grow into a more significant role as he adapts to the NBA level.