The Oklahoma City Thunder may have just pulled off one of the savvier moves of the trade deadline season, and they might not be done yet.
With the deadline clock ticking down, the Thunder made a notable splash by acquiring Jared McCain from the Philadelphia 76ers. In exchange for a low-tier first-round pick and three future second-rounders, OKC added a sharp-shooting guard who can stretch the floor and bolster their backcourt depth - exactly the kind of complementary piece that fits their system and timeline.
For a team that’s already in the thick of a title defense, this move isn’t just about plugging a hole - it’s about reinforcing a foundation that’s already proven championship-worthy. McCain brings a reliable perimeter shot, and his ability to play within a system makes him a seamless fit alongside the Thunder’s existing core. In a league where spacing and shooting are at a premium, OKC just added a weapon that could quietly swing a playoff series.
But don’t close the books on their deadline activity just yet.
According to recent reports, the Thunder may still be active in the trade market, this time with an eye on frontcourt depth. With rumors swirling that Sam Presti and his front office are targeting a backup big, it’s clear that Oklahoma City is looking to insulate itself against the kind of injury setbacks that have haunted their rotation in recent seasons.
The logic here is sound. While Chet Holmgren has managed to stay on the floor for most of the season - a huge win for OKC given his importance on both ends - the same can’t be said for Isaiah Hartenstein and Jaylin Williams. The two have combined to miss 40 of a possible 52 games, leaving the Thunder thin up front and overly reliant on Holmgren’s availability.
That’s a precarious position for a team with championship aspirations. Depth in the frontcourt isn’t just about minutes - it’s about options. Foul trouble, matchups, and the grind of the postseason all demand a certain level of insurance, and right now, OKC’s coverage is looking a little light.
As for who might be on their radar? That part remains unclear.
The rumor mill has churned out a range of names - from underused young bigs like Yves Missi to seasoned veterans such as Kevin Love, who could bring leadership and playoff experience to a relatively young locker room. Whether OKC leans toward youth or experience may depend on the asking price, but the intent is there: they want reinforcements.
It’s worth noting that this level of aggressiveness is a bit of a departure from Presti’s usual playbook. Historically, the Thunder have been more conservative when it comes to in-season trades, preferring to build patiently and let their young core grow together. But the McCain deal may have signaled a shift in strategy - a recognition that championship windows can be fleeting, and that sometimes, calculated risks are worth taking.
With the deadline hours away, the Thunder have already improved their roster. But if the front office has its way, they might not be done reshaping it. And if they do land another big, don’t be surprised if it ends up being the kind of under-the-radar move that pays dividends when the games matter most.