The Oklahoma City Thunder have overcome significant challenges in the first two months of the season. Despite injuries to key big men Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Jaylin Williams, the Thunder lead the Western Conference with a 14-4 record. Their league-best defense, boasting a 103.0 defensive rating, has been the foundation of their success. Yet, the best news of their season so far could be events not even taking place on the team. The Thunder are positioned to benefit from the 76ers’ woes.
Thunder Set to Be Gifted Another ‘Star’ by the 76ers
A Rough Start for the 76ers
The 76ers, expected to contend for a championship, have stumbled badly out of the gate. With a 3-14 record, they sit second to the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The addition of Paul George to a core featuring Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid was supposed to solidify their title hopes. Instead, injuries to George and Embiid have derailed their campaign.
The two stars have combined to play just 12 games, sharing the court only four times. This lack of continuity has led to poor results. Even in the weaker Eastern Conference, their uphill climb to playoff contention looks daunting.
The Thunder’s Draft Treasure Chest
Philadelphia’s struggles could provide Oklahoma City with an unexpected boost. As part of their legendary draft capital collection, the Thunder hold the 76ers’ 2025 first-round pick. This pick, acquired during the 2020 Al Horford trade, could become incredibly valuable.
Currently projected as the second overall pick, this selection would give the Thunder yet another high-level prospect. The 76ers’ pick is top-six protected in 2025. If it falls in the top six, Oklahoma City will get the pick in 2026 with top-four protections.
However, with the 76ers floundering and locker room issues reportedly brewing, the chances of Oklahoma City claiming the pick this year increase.
Presti’s Drafting Genius
Sam Presti’s track record as a drafter is unmatched. The Thunder have built their roster through shrewd drafting and player development. In recent years, they selected Jalen Williams 12th in 2022 and Cason Wallace 10th in 2023. Both players have quickly become integral to the team’s success.
Adding another top prospect could further solidify the Thunder’s young core, already one of the league’s most talented. The team’s focus on finding players who fit Mark Daigneault’s system has been critical.
Building on a Budget
Oklahoma City’s success is even more remarkable given their low payroll. They currently have the fifth-cheapest cap sheet in the NBA. Despite this, they sit comfortably atop the Western Conference, competing with teams spending significantly more.
This financial flexibility positions them to retain their current talent while adding future stars through the draft. If the 76ers’ pick conveys, it could accelerate their timeline and strengthen their position as a perennial contender.
The Sixers’ Uphill Battle
Philadelphia still has time to salvage their season. With George and Embiid expected to play more games together, the team could climb the standings. However, the hole they’ve dug may be too deep.
Even a modest improvement may not prevent the Thunder from claiming their pick. Oklahoma City’s future looks bright, and the 76ers’ misfortune could make it even brighter.
Thunder Primed to Reap Rewards of Floundering 76ers Season
The Thunder’s dominance this season highlights their resilience and talent. Their young core continues to excel, and reinforcements are arriving. Yet their biggest addition may come from Philadelphia’s struggles.
With the 76ers’ 2025 pick likely to fall into Oklahoma City’s hands, the Thunder could secure another future star. In Presti’s hands, that pick could become the next key piece in the Thunder’s quest for an NBA title.
