Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Offseason Plans
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has expressed his confidence in general manager Sam Presti to handle the Thunder’s offseason strategy.
The two-time MVP and former NBA champion emphasized that he won’t involve himself in any offseason decisions, especially after the team’s disappointing exit in the Western Conference Finals, where they lost seven consecutive games to the Spurs.
The Thunder’s offseason challenges became apparent right after their press conference on Sunday, less than a day after their season conclusion.
Following the heart-wrenching loss, Gilgeous-Alexander commented, “I don’t really have any opinion on it. I’ll let Sam Presti, the greatest GM of all time, handle that.” It’s clear he trusts his GM to steer the ship.
This offseason poses significant hurdles for Presti and the Thunder, with several pressing questions looming large.
Financial considerations are shifting for OKC; they’ve enjoyed some leeway in the past, but that changes this summer. Gilgeous-Alexander is entering the final year of his rookie extension, while his new veteran contract kicks in during the 2027-28 season.
Next season, SGA is set to earn over $40 million, with a hefty rise to $61 million the following year, as part of a substantial four-year, $285 million deal.
Both Chet Holmgren and Jaylen Williams, selected in the first round of 2022, will begin their rookie extensions next season.
Holmgren had a rough performance in Game 7 and made under $14 million last year, but he’ll be making $41.5 million next season as part of a lucrative five-year, $239 million agreement.
Williams, who earned $6.5 million last year, will follow Holmgren’s trajectory with a similar max contract extension.
The landscape is competitive, especially with teams strategizing around the second apron, depending on how player movements unfold.
Isaiah Hartenstein and Lou Dort each have team options for the coming year, but their return may hinge on creative solutions from Presti and the front office. Additionally, long-term decisions regarding Kayson Wallace, Kenrich Williams, and others will be necessary, as contracts for several players expire in the summer of 2027-2028.
Alex Caruso is also in the second year of a four-year, $81 million deal and is slated to make $19.5 million next season.
Despite these challenges, the Thunder maintain a robust position for growth, holding onto 14 first-round picks—two of which are for this year—and 12 second-rounders from 2026 to 2033.
The picks for 2026 are at No. 12, No. 17, and No. 37, placing OKC in an advantageous position for potential upgrades through the draft, trades, or both.
