OKC Thunder: Flexibility for the Playoffs Could Influence Deadline Deals
Any deals the Oklahoma City Thunder make at the trade deadline will be made with the playoffs in mind.
With concerns about size and rebounding among the top ways the Thunder could look to improve, having an abundance of lineup options should also be near the top of Sam Presti’s list. The playoffs are all about matchups, and having the right guys could be the difference between an early exit and a deep run.
Most championship teams have used the same starting lineup throughout title runs, barring injury. But there are examples, such as the 2020 Lakers, who adjusted their starting five throughout the playoffs based on matchups.
Four of the Thunder’s usual starters will likely stay in the lineup regardless of matchups in the postseason. However, Josh Giddey could get played out of the starting five and even out of the rotation against some teams.
That gives Oklahoma City options such as Cason Wallace, Kenrich Williams, Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins to fill in. Those four combining for 24 career playoff minutes could be an issue.
With the team among the league’s youngest, adding playoff experience could be a wise option should the current starting lineup have a rough time in the playoffs. Although another experienced player could plug into the starting five, adding veteran depth is important, too.
If the Thunder gets into a matchup that makes sense for Kenrich Williams to start, they would be left without a reliable forward of Williams’ size off the bench. It is not as much of an issue if they simply need to change the guard matchup, with Wallace, Joe or Wiggins ready to make that jump and potentially Giddey off the bench.
Although injuries have not been a significant problem for Oklahoma City this season, having plenty of options if anyone has to miss time would be valuable.
There is no guarantee the Thunder will need to make any changes to their starters in the playoffs. But being prepared for that situation could make or break their postseason.
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