Did Oklahoma City Make the Best Move in NBA History?

This scenario is a direct consequence of the trade that sent Paul George to California, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander heading in the opposite direction. Years later, Oklahoma continues to reap the benefits of one of the most impactful deals of the last decade. The team, which has already secured the top seed in the Western Conference, now holds a 7.1% chance for a top-four pick, with a 1.5% probability of landing the first overall pick in the draft.

Thus, a team that has been at the top of the Western Conference for three consecutive seasons and dominates the league has simultaneously acquired extremely valuable draft capital in what is considered one of the most talented draft classes in recent memory.

The 2026 draft class is regarded as one of the most promising, with notable names including Cameron Boozer, Darin Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, and Caleb Wilson.

However, that's not all. Oklahoma also possesses Philadelphia's pick from this year's draft. Although that pick was protected if it fell within the top five, Philadelphia's victory over Orlando and their subsequent playoff berth mean this selection will also go to the Thunder.

All eyes are now on May 10th, when the NBA Draft Lottery will reveal from which position Oklahoma will be able to make their selection.