The Oklahoma City Thunder have put an end to trade speculation surrounding center Chet Holmgren, informing interested teams that he is not available. Despite Holmgren’s struggles in the Western Conference Finals and the team's looming salary cap challenges, Thunder general manager Sam Presti is committed to building around his core trio of Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Holmgren is set to begin a five-year, $239 million rookie scale extension this season. His first-year salary is projected to reach $41.25 million, aligning with the five-year, $239 million deal Jalen Williams signed earlier this summer. The two young stars will now be locked in with massive contracts, totaling over $80 million combined in 2024-25.
The Thunder’s decision to hold firm on Holmgren comes despite mounting pressure from rival teams seeking a dominant rim protector. Holmgren averaged 18.8 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.3 blocks per game last season but struggled defensively in the playoffs, drawing scrutiny from analysts and fans alike.
Oklahoma City’s financial situation adds complexity to the trade market. The Thunder are projected to exceed the luxury tax apron again next season, potentially limiting Presti’s flexibility. Retaining Holmgren means the team will have to be strategic in managing cap space while maintaining a competitive roster.
The Thunder finished the 2023-24 season with a 50-36 record and reached the Western Conference Finals for the first time in years. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 24.3 points per game and a career-high in assists, showing his ability to elevate teammates.
With the trade market cooling on Holmgren, the Thunder are expected to focus on free agency and the draft to bolster their supporting cast. The team’s core remains intact, with all three stars under contract through 2028-29.
The next major date on the calendar is the NBA Draft on June 28. Oklahoma City holds the No. 4 pick and will look to add another piece to complement their young core. As of now, the Thunder’s message is clear: they are all in with Holmgren and not looking to trade him.
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