Thunder’s Possible Roster Shake‑Up

The Oklahoma City Thunder are likely already deciding who to let go this offseason. One player that stands out is swingman Luguentz Dort, whose team option of $17. 7 million expires next summer. Dort has been with the Thunder since 2019, sharing a longest‑tenured status with superstar Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander. He earned All‑Defensive First Team honors in 2025 and helped the team win its first NBA title that year. However, Dort’s recent performance has raised concerns. In the 2026 playoffs he posted only 5. 5 points per game and a 30. 8 percent shooting rate from beyond the arc, leading to reduced minutes in favor of teammates Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace. Both replacements offer strong defense but also more consistent scoring, making Dort’s role less secure.

Another player on the roster with a sizable option is seven‑footer Isaiah Hartenstein, who carries a $28. 5 million team choice for the same period. Although Hartenstein’s option is larger, he is considered more essential to the Thunder’s frontcourt depth. The team needs a reliable presence to counter rivals like Victor Wembanyama, which may tip the balance in favor of keeping Hartenstein. If the Thunder decide to part ways with Dort, he could find himself without a spot on the team. The organization will weigh his defensive strengths against his recent offensive struggles, while also considering the strategic need for big‑man talent in a competitive division.

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