The Oklahoma City Thunder are preparing to defend their title in the 2025-26 campaign.
Despite having the youngest team in the NBA last season, the Thunder dominated the regular season before defeating the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Finals. Now, they’ll aim to become the first team since the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018 to win back-to-back titles.
The Thunder are widely considered one of the favorites to advance to the Finals yet again, with reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge. However, the conference remains loaded, and the road won’t be easy.
MORE: NBA analyst predicts All-NBA leap for Thunder’s $250 million star
Thunder acquire Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo in mock trade
Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey recently compiled a trade proposal for each team, predicting the deals they could make if the deadline came before the regular season. The Thunder have an abundance of assets — enough to potentially pull off a blockbuster move for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has been at the center of trade speculation following the team’s third consecutive first-round playoff exit.
Here’s Bailey’s proposed trade:
Thunder receive: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Bucks receive: Isaiah Hartenstein, Luguentz Dort, 2026 first-round pick (via HOU), 2028 first-round pick (via DAL), 2030 first-round pick, 2032 first-round pick, eight second-round picks
The Thunder don’t need to make any trades to contend in the star-studded West. However, they have enough draft capital to go after Antetokounmpo if he becomes available.
A core of Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren and Antetokounmpo would form a potential dynasty. While the Bucks appear unlikely to trade the two-time MVP right now, Oklahoma City has the draft capital and depth to make a deal.
More NBA news:
