Thunder face difficult roster decisions: ‘Can’t be room for everybody’

The Thunder came within one win of returning to the NBA Finals. Now comes the challenge of keeping a talented roster together.

According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater and Tim MacMahon, rival executives have been wondering for months whether Oklahoma City will eventually be forced to part with some rotation players as the roster becomes increasingly crowded and expensive.

“There can’t be room for everybody,” one Eastern Conference executive told ESPN.

Much of the recent speculation has centered on Chet Holmgren following his difficult Western Conference finals against Spurs star Victor Wembanyama.

However, ESPN reported that Holmgren continues to be viewed internally as a franchise cornerstone despite his struggles in Game 7, when he attempted just two shots and scored four points.

The Thunder also appear committed to several other key contributors.

Veteran guard Alex Caruso strengthened his standing within the organization during the playoffs and is viewed as a firm member of the team’s core, according to the report. There is also an expectation that center Isaiah Hartenstein will remain with the franchise, either through his existing contract structure or a potential new agreement.

Luguentz Dort‘s future may be less certain.

The longtime Thunder wing remains one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders, but Oklahoma City’s growing collection of young talent could complicate matters. Cason Wallace appears ready for a larger role, while Caruso provides another elite defensive option.

That said, Dort has at least one influential supporter.

According to ESPN, league sources familiar with the thinking of MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander expect him to make it known that he values playing alongside Dort, his fellow Canadian and longtime teammate.

Granted, there’s little expectation that executive vice president Sam Presti will make any drastic moves.

But as Oklahoma City’s payroll rises and extension decisions loom, difficult choices could be approaching.