The Oklahoma City Thunder are working hard over the offseason. Following an incredibly successful 2023-24 season, their attention is now on ensuring that this success continues into the next season. The first item of business is to retain their core rotation players. According to Shams Charania, they took the first steps toward this goal by re-signing to new deals.
“Free agent sharpshooter Isaiah Joe has agreed to a four-year, $48 million contract to return to the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to sources at @TheAthletic @Stadium. Joe joined OKC after being waived by the 76ers in 2022, and he now has a long-term deal.
“According to sources, the Oklahoma City Thunder and free agency forward Aaron Wiggins have agreed on a new five-year, $47 million contract. After OKC declined his $2 million team option, Wiggins will receive $45 million in new money, including a substantial rise next season. Thunder lock in a vital rotation element for the long term.”
Of course, the Thunder’s stars were the focal point of most debates. Chet Holmgren, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jalen Williams all received notice during the season. However, their supporting cast ensured that the stars could focus on their work without distractions.
Joe and Wiggins are both excellent shooters off the bench for the Thunder. Joe shoots 41% from the outside, while Wiggins shoots an incredible 49% from deep (although on fewer attempts). It’s also worth noting that these two were “bargain” acquisitions for OKC: Joe was a training camp cut, and Wiggins was selected late in the second round. Their production considerably exceeded their estimates.
Thunder’s playoff push
While the Thunder intend to maintain their current rotation, that does not mean they will not make any adjustments. OKC began the summer by sending Josh Giddey to the Chicago Bulls for Alex Caruso. Giddey refused to shift to the bench, thus the club opted to find another solution for the Australian guard.
The Thunder hope to maintain their strong trend from the 2023-24 season. Fans expected this club to continue rebuilding after an uneventful season the previous year. Perhaps a few tweaks here and there, but nothing too dramatic. Instead, OKC rocketed up the standings and earned the first seed in a fiercely competitive Western Conference. The brilliance of SGA, as well as Holmgren’s good debut season in the league, led to this success.
However, credit must also be given to head coach Mark Daigenault and the Thunder’s supporting cast for their success. Daigenault’s ability to extract talent from his team was impressive. He also recognized the potential of players such as Joe and Wiggins, allowing them to thrive in the lineup. Their shooting contributed significantly to their success last season.
Unfortunately, their ideal season ended in heartbreak when they lost in Game 7 to the Dallas Mavericks. Now, inspired by that painful loss, the Thunder hope to return to the Finals for the first time since the 2011 playoffs. Can this squad fulfill the prophecy by winning the Larry O’Brien Trophy?
