The Oklahoma City Thunder are not expected to pursue major additions on the trade market as they look to stay below the NBA’s second apron, according to Jake Fischer. Oklahoma City is approximately $5 million away from that threshold and wants to preserve its financial flexibility.
The report comes as the Thunder deal with a significant injury crisis early in the 2026-27 season. Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace are expected to miss the remainder of the campaign, while Chet Holmgren is sidelined until at least January after suffering a right patellar tendon tear.
The financial position is a major factor in that approach. The Thunder’s salary outlook puts their 2026-27 allocations at approximately $216.5 million, with the team already over the first apron and facing an estimated $19.7 million luxury-tax bill.
Oklahoma City is 5-2 despite the absences, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander averaging 28.4 points and 4.0 assists through seven games. Ajay Mitchell has added 17.0 points per game, while Jared McCain is averaging 10.3 points in an expanded role.
The injuries have also affected the team’s depth. Alex Caruso is out with a right ankle sprain, while Nikola Topic and Thomas Sorber remain sidelined following surgeries.
The Thunder have relied on younger rotation players, including Bennett Stirtz and Josh Dix, as they manage the absences.
Oklahoma City’s longer-term payroll commitments provide another reason to avoid adding significant salary.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s salary is projected to rise to $61.6 million in 2027-28, while the contracts of Jalen Williams and Holmgren are also set to increase.
