The Oklahoma City Thunder had an outstanding 2023-24 season, finishing with a 57-25 record and clinching the top spot in the Western Conference. This marked a dramatic improvement from their previous seasons, thanks largely to the stellar performances of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the emergence of young talents like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren. Despite falling to the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Semifinals, the Thunder showcased their potential and promise for the future.
Heading into the 2024 offseason, the Thunder have a solid foundation and are looking to add role players from other teams to continue their upward trajectory. After they just landed Alex Caruso in a trade with the Bulls, sending Josh Giddey away, here are other role players who could help the Thunder achieve greater success.
1. Nic Claxton
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How The Thunder Can Land Nic Claxton:
Free Agent Signing
Nic Claxton had a stellar 2023-24 season with the Brooklyn Nets, really making a name for himself as one of the top defensive big men in the league. He put up some solid numbers, averaging 11.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game while hitting 62.9% of his shots from the field. Claxton's shot-blocking and defensive presence were key for the Nets, making him a hot commodity as he hits free agency.
As Claxton becomes a free agent, the Thunder will need to make a strong offer to lure him away from other interested teams. We're probably talking about a multi-year deal worth somewhere between $15-20 million per year, depending on how the market shapes up and what other teams are willing to offer. Rumors say the Nets won’t be willing to give him a contract over $25 million per season, as that may be Claxton’s final price tag.
Claxton would be an awesome fit next to Chet Holmgren in OKC. Holmgren, who can stretch the floor and provide some offensive punch, would pair nicely with Claxton's defensive chops and rebounding skills. Together, they could form a dynamic duo in the frontcourt, giving the Thunder flexibility to mix up their defensive schemes and handle different types of opposing big men. This combo could really boost OKC's ability to compete with both traditional centers and modern stretch bigs.
Adding Claxton to the mix would not only bolster the Thunder's defense but also give them a reliable presence in the paint. This move could be a game-changer for OKC, making Claxton a top target for their offseason plans.
2. Isaiah Hartenstein
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How The Thunder Can Land Isaiah Hartenstein:
Free Agent Signing
Isaiah Hartenstein had a solid 2023-24 season with the New York Knicks, putting up some impressive numbers and proving to be a valuable asset, especially during the playoffs. During the regular season, Hartenstein averaged 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game over 75 games, while shooting 64.4% from the field.
His playoff performance was even more noteworthy, where he stepped up his game by averaging 8.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game over 13 playoff games. His contributions on both ends of the court were crucial for the Knicks during their postseason run.
As Hartenstein enters free agency, the Thunder could make a strong move to acquire him. Given his recent performances, he is likely to attract offers in the range of a mid-level exception or slightly higher, in the $15 to $18 million range, depending on how aggressive teams are in pursuing him.
Hartenstein would be a fantastic fit alongside Chet Holmgren. His ability to rebound and defend would complement Holmgren’s offensive skills and shot-blocking ability. Together, they could form a dynamic frontcourt duo that would be tough for opponents to handle. Hartenstein’s passing skills also add another layer of versatility, allowing him to facilitate the offense from the high post or while setting screens.
Adding Hartenstein to the Thunder’s roster would not only bolster their interior defense and rebounding but also provide a reliable presence in the paint. This move could significantly improve the team’s depth and overall performance, making Hartenstein a top target for OKC this offseason.
3. Deni Avdija
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How The Thunder Can Land Deni Avdija:
Thunder receive: Deni Avdija
Wizards receive: Kenrich Williams, Ousmane Dieng, No. 12 pick
The Thunder might be looking to shake things up a bit, and there could be a scenario of trading Kenrich Williams, Ousmane Dieng, and their No. 12 pick to the Wizards for Deni Avdija.
Williams was useful at a time for OKC, but it seems like the team is ready to explore other options. He can ball, but with all the young talent on the roster, OKC might be thinking about making some moves. Despite his talent and versatility, he appears to be on the trading block.
The Wizards are in full rebuild mode after a rough season, finishing with a 15-67 record. They have the No. 2 pick in this year’s draft, so adding Williams and Dieng, plus the No. 12 pick, would be a sweet deal for them. Williams’ versatility and Dieng’s potential could really help them out as they try to build a competitive team.
Deni Avdija has been solid with the Wizards, averaging 14.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. He’s known for his defense and versatility – he can guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor. In OKC, he’d fit right in with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren. Avdija’s defensive skills and ability to stretch the floor would give the Thunder more lineup flexibility and some serious defensive chops.
4. Chris Paul
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How The Thunder Can Land Chris Paul:
Free Agent Signing
Chris Paul could become a free agent if the Golden State Warriors decide to cut him. The Warriors have until June 28, 2024, to decide whether to guarantee his $30 million salary for the next season or waive him. Given their salary cap situation and desire to focus on younger players, there's a good chance they might let him go.
In the 2023-24 season with the Warriors, Chris Paul averaged 9.2 points, 6.8 assists, and 3.9 rebounds over 58 games. His shooting percentages were solid, hitting 44.1% from the field and 37.1% from three-point range. Even though his stats have declined from his peak years, Paul still offers valuable experience and playmaking skills.
The Warriors had a mixed season, finishing with a 46-36 record but missing out on the playoffs. With their eyes on maximizing their championship window around Stephen Curry, they might decide that Paul's contract is better used elsewhere, making him a candidate to be cut. This decision would free up significant cap space for them to pursue other players.
Chris Paul is no stranger to Oklahoma City. He played for the Thunder during the 2019-20 season, leading them to a surprising playoff berth and mentoring the young roster. His leadership was crucial, and he left a positive mark on the team.
If Chris Paul returns to OKC, he’d bring a wealth of experience and leadership to a young Thunder team. His ability to control the game, mentor young players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and provide clutch performances would be invaluable. Paul's previous stint with the Thunder showed he can thrive in a mentor role while still performing at a high level on the court.
5. Clint Capela
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How The Thunder Can Land Clint Capela:
Thunder receive: Clint Capela
Hawks receive: Jaylin Williams, Kenrich Williams, No. 12 pick
Clint Capela had a solid 2023-24 season with the Atlanta Hawks, putting up 11.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game over 73 games. He stayed efficient, shooting 57.1% from the field. Capela continues to be a beast in the paint, both offensively and defensively.
The Hawks had a tough season, finishing 36-46 and missing the playoffs. They're looking to mix things up and build a better squad around Trae Young. They've got the No. 1 pick in this year's draft, and trading Capela could help them snag more assets and get some fresh faces on the roster.
With Onyeka Okongwu coming up strong, Capela might be seen as extra baggage. Okongwu’s growth has made Capela a bit redundant, and trading him could bring in pieces that fit better with the Hawks’ future plans.
For the Thunder, grabbing Capela would be a big win. He’d instantly boost their defense and rebounding. Imagine Capela and Chet Holmgren together – that’s a frontcourt duo that can really cause problems for opponents. Capela’s rim protection and finishing skills would mesh perfectly with Holmgren's versatile game.
6. Bruce Brown
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How The Thunder Can Land Bruce Brown:
Thunder receive: Bruce Brown
Raptors receive: Kenrich Williams, Cason Wallace, Ousmane Dieng
Bruce Brown, currently with the Toronto Raptors, has a $23 million team option for the 2024-25 season that the Raptors are expected to pick up. This makes him a prime trade candidate, as Toronto aims to reconfigure their roster after a disappointing season.
Brown was acquired by the Raptors as part of the Pascal Siakam trade. While he had a decent run with them, averaging 9.6 points and 3.8 rebounds in 34 games, he hasn’t quite found his footing in Toronto. With the team looking to rebuild and maximize their assets, Brown’s expiring contract becomes a valuable trade chip.
The Raptors finished the season with a 25-57 record and missed the playoffs. They're looking to shed some salary and acquire young talent to complement their existing core. Trading Brown, especially with his expiring contract, would help them achieve this. They also have the No. 19 pick in the draft, giving them further incentive to add young, developing players.
For the Thunder, adding Bruce Brown would bring a championship pedigree, as he was a key part of the Denver Nuggets' title-winning team before his stint with the Raptors. Brown’s versatility, defensive skills, and ability to play multiple positions make him an excellent fit alongside OKC's young stars guided by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Brown’s experience and winning mentality could provide the Thunder with the veteran presence they need to push deeper into the playoffs. His defensive prowess would be particularly valuable, helping to shore up OKC’s perimeter defense.
7. Jordan Clarkson
Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports
How The Thunder Can Land Jordan Clarkson:
Thunder receive: Jordan Clarkson
Jazz receive: Kenrich Williams, Cason Wallace, Ousmane Dieng
Jordan Clarkson had a pretty good 2023-24 season with the Utah Jazz, putting up 17.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. He’s still a reliable scorer and playmaker. The Jazz are looking to trade him as they rebuild, especially since Clarkson is on a $14 million contract per year for just 2 final seasons with the team. This makes him a prime target for teams looking for an experienced scorer.
The Jazz had a rough season, missing the playoffs completely. They’re in full rebuild mode, wanting to get young talent and draft picks to build around. Trading Clarkson fits perfectly into their plan to create cap space and gather assets for the future.
For the Thunder, getting Jordan Clarkson would be awesome. He’d bring some much-needed veteran scoring and playmaking off the bench. Clarkson can create his own shot and provide instant offense, which would be a big boost for OKC’s young team. His experience and ability to score in clutch moments would fit right in with the Thunder’s fast-paced, dynamic style of play.
8. Tim Hardaway Jr.
Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports
How The Thunder Can Land Tim Hardaway Jr.:
Thunder receive: Tim Hardaway Jr.
Mavericks receive: Isaiah Joe, Kenrich Williams
Tim Hardaway Jr. had a pretty rocky 2023-24 season with the Dallas Mavericks, showing his usual inconsistency. He had some great games but also some pretty bad slumps. Overall, he averaged 14.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, but his shooting was inconsistent, hitting just 40.1% from the field and 35.6% from beyond the arc.
The playoffs were particularly tough for Hardaway, where he struggled to make an impact. His poor performance during the Mavericks' playoff run has sparked trade rumors once again. This isn't new for Hardaway, as he’s been in trade discussions for years due to his streaky nature and sizable contract of $16.1 million.
For the Mavericks, trading Hardaway makes sense as they look to retool their roster around Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Adding a young, versatile player like Joe, along with a solid role player in Kenrich Williams, could provide Dallas with the flexibility and depth they need.
In OKC, Hardaway could fit well as a veteran presence who can provide scoring off the bench or even in a starting role. His ability to hit tough shots, despite his inconsistency, would add a valuable scoring option to the Thunder's lineup. Plus, his experience and ability to step up in key moments could be beneficial for OKC’s young core as they push for deeper playoff runs.
This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.
