The Oklahoma City Thunder have one of the deepest rosters in the league, which is why they sit at an NBA-best 60-12 record.
The organization may look to add some pieces in the draft this offseason. If they do that, OKC may have to part ways with center Jaylin Williams, Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus writes.
“Oklahoma City could have as many as three first-round picks this year and may need to create roster space,” Pincus said. “The Thunder may trade some of those 2025 picks for future first-rounders, but if they need to make room, would they look to move (Jaylin) Williams? That’s a stretch, as he’s a productive bench player.”
Some of the best teams of all time have had to rely on a deep bench and players who have been with the squad for several years to provide meaningful production on the court while helping the organization develop a culture. Jaylin Williams has had continuity with guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, power forward/center Chet Holmgren, and forward Jalen Williams.
Jaylin Williams’ minutes are largely eaten up by Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein, but he provides solid averages of 5.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and three-point shooting from the big man spot in just 17 minutes a night.
“The Thunder are the best team in the West and are a serious threat to win this year’s title,” Pincus said. “Bringing back the same group doesn’t sound like the worst idea, so Williams figures to still be in Oklahoma City next season.”
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Indeed, a team running it back with the same cast of characters allows them to play a cleaner brand of basketball because every player largely understands their teammates’ tendencies.
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