Why is the 2026 NBA Draft important for the Thunder?

The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to be a talent-rich class, and the Thunder have multiple draft picks in that year, including selections from the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers. This provides the Thunder with an opportunity to supplement their expensive group with cost-controlled talent as they aim to build a dynasty.

What is the Thunder's pathway to sustained success?

According to the team's general manager, Sam Presti, the Thunder's pathway to sustainability is through the NBA Draft, as they aim to capitalize on the loaded 2026 class and continue their championship aspirations.

Home / Sports / Thunder Locks Up Star Trio, Preps for Loaded 2026 Draft

Thunder Locks Up Star Trio, Preps for Loaded 2026 Draft

Q: What did the Oklahoma City Thunder do this offseason?

The Oklahoma City Thunder locked up their star trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren with massive contract extensions this offseason.

9 Aug

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Summary

Thunder won first NBA title last season
Locked up Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, Holmgren with extensions
Have multiple 2026 draft picks, including Rockets, Clippers, 76ers

Thunder Locks Up Star Trio, Preps for Loaded 2026 Draft

In June 2024, the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrated their first NBA championship in franchise history. Now, the team is focused on building a dynasty through the NBA Draft, which has become the lifeblood of the franchise due to the new CBA salary cap restrictions.

The Thunder have taken a significant step towards sustained success by locking up their star trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren with massive contract extensions this offseason. This ensures the team's core remains intact as they look to the future.

Looking ahead, the Thunder have a bevy of future draft picks, including multiple selections in the highly anticipated 2026 NBA Draft. This class is projected to be talent-rich at the top and incredibly deep, providing the Thunder with an opportunity to supplement their expensive group with cost-controlled talent.

According to the team's general manager, Sam Presti, the Thunder's pathway to sustainability is through the draft, as they aim to capitalize on the loaded 2026 class and continue their championship aspirations.

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