The Oklahoma City Thunder did what everyone expected, and re-signed Chet Holmgren to a rookie-scale extension. But in the era of second apron and parity, every big move like this means teams have to shed salary elsewhere. While the Thunder are well-positioned to continue adding to their roster, there is no denying they might have to sacrifice some players. The clock might already be ticking. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some OKC Thunder rumors and who might be out soon.
Holmgren’s Big Payday Could Push These 3 Thunder Players Out
This summer, the Thunder have already spent more than half a billion dollars on extensions. They gave Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a four-year, $285 million extension. And then they gave Holmgren a five-year, max rookie extension that can very easily reach $250 million. They also have to take care of Jalen Williams, another key player on their roster. While all three are young and can be part of the team for many years moving forward, the Thunder will certainly have to make hard choices down the road.
If we look at the Eastern Conference and the Boston Celtics, the idea of paying two max players and other high-salary guys is not sustainable. The Celtics shed salary this season by parting with two key contributors to their championship run, Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. With that in mind, here are three players who might have to renegotiate contracts or search for a new home.
Isaiah Hartenstein
The Thunder dominated last season with Chet and Isaiah Hartenstein. Their two big-man lineup was key to beating teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Indiana Pacers. Yet, after one season with the team, Hartenstein might have to look for a new home after next season. The Thunder have a team option for the 2026-27 season at $28.5 million, and it is hard to see them exercising it.
Hartenstein was the second-highest-paid player on the roster last year and will earn close to $30 million next season. With Chet’s extension kicking in, the Thunder will likely try to renegotiate the contract with Hartenstein. But on the flip side, he will be 28 years old then, and still a valuable player. He may have to choose between being part of a championship roster or looking for a higher salary elsewhere.
Kenrich Williams
Kenrich Williams was a decent bench contributor for the Thunder last season, averaging 6.3 points and 3.5 rebounds in more than 16 minutes of action. OKC has a team option for Williams for the 2026-27 season at $7 million. With the team drafting Thomas Sorber, Williams will likely be out. Every dollar will count for the Thunder going forward. Sorber will make several million less than Williams, and has the potential to offer similar production.
Alex Caruso
Alex Caruso has fulfilled his role of helping the Thunder win a championship. But he might suffer the same destiny as Jrue Holiday. Remember, Jrue won a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks and then got traded. He won a title with the Celtics, and he was moved to shed salary. Caruso will turn 32 years old next season before the trade deadline. If the Thunder want to cash in, the deadline will be the perfect time to part ways with Caruso, if not the end of next season.
It all depends on the development of Cason Wallace, Ajay Mitchell, Aaron Wiggins, and Nikola Topic. Topic’s growth might be the key to parting with Caruso. Topic is already showing signs in Summer League that he can be a great addition to the Thunder, and he will cost significantly less than Caruso.
© Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
