An important off-season lies ahead for Oklahoma City, one that includes addressing a key roster hole.
The Thunder are loaded with depth and versatility, but there’s one specific spot that needs to be filled
A multitude of things defined the Thunder’s 2025-26 season: from raising their first championship to defending their title and being the hunted, to a 24-1 historic start, and many other events unfolding throughout the season.
One unfortunate theme that played a significant role in the defending champs’ season-ending loss was injuries. While everyone on OKC dealt with injuries at some point, ranking second in missed games due to injuries, Jalen Williams was hit hard, with various injuries plaguing him all season.
The versatility and connectivity the All-NBA and All-Defensive wing brings to the Thunder’s lineup is so valuable in every area, which was evident in his absence, proving to be too much to overcome in the Western Conference Finals.
Williams’ skill set not only takes the Thunder to another level but also adds another dimension on both ends, as his traits went overlooked after Oklahoma City’s success without him. Williams’ ability to legitimately guard every position on the floor is irreplaceable due to his length and frame. His ability to play multiple offensive roles, along with the energy he provides in transition, makes him so versatile.
Although he’s a bit undersized for the four role he sometimes plays, Williams and Kenrich Williams are the only players who checks the boxes as a bigger forward for Oklahoma City. Yes, the Thunder will likely continue running double bigs, but there will be times where Mark Daigneault will need smaller lineups in key situations.
With Williams missing the majority of the Conference Finals, Kenrich Williams and Alex Caruso were the ones playing minutes at the four in the single big lineups. Considering the All-NBA wing’s injury history, the Thunder need to add someone with size who can replicate some of the versatility Williams provides at forward.
Obviously, Sam Presti has an array of assets in his deck, making the situation a lot easier. The Thunder are loaded with guards, smaller wings, and a trio of bigs in the frontcourt, making a lack of true forwards more noticeable, as that position has caused trouble for Oklahoma City in recent years.
While this need won’t be easy to address, the Thunder have multiple avenues to fill it: whether it’s using their assets (picks or players) to make a trade, or addressing it through the draft, given their cap situation.Â
The Thunder’s lack of size at forward is an area that needs to be addressed to put them in the best position to win their second title in 2027.
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