Oklahoma weather tends to align itself with Thunder basketball most days. Today, we’re graced with rolling thunderstorms and more draft speculation in the media. Over the past week, we’ve seen “rumors” that the Sacramento Kings have traded for the Thunder’s pick at 2, Presti is enamored with Jaden Ivey, and we’re getting married to Chet Holmgren. We are a special breed as Thunder fans. A combination of rowdy college football fanatics plus the most passionate fanbase EVER equals a very loyal, very loud, and very needy type of fanatic. The pure jubilation the entire fanbase felt when the Kings card flipped at four, then the Rockets at three, followed by the Thunder at two was met with the highest of fives, spilled drinks, and thirsting for more.
The waiting period we’re experiencing right now before the draft can be compared to that LONG week after Christmas and before the New Year. We are in good hands, Thunder fans. The hands that crafted our Finals team and then sunset our aging stars, turning them into SGA, Tre Mann, #12 and #30 in this draft AND 9 more first-round picks over the next four drafts after this one! If there’s a GM to tear it down and build it back better, it’s Presti. The man himself said he wants it to be an “Arrival”, not an “Appearance”, when OKC makes it to the playoffs next. That type of confidence starts from the top and bleeds throughout the entire organization. You see it in our coaching staff, players, and even people who come by for a quick pitstop. (Shoutout Al Horford, go get that ring, and go Celtics!)
Most of the NBA media is trying to guess what the Thunder are going to do, but please take it with a grain of salt. Only Presti knows what Presti is going to do on draft night and the rest of the offseason. I do believe the consensus top three will go: Jabari Smith Jr, Holmgren, and Paolo Banchero. At the end of the day, everything points to Holmgren being drafted by the Thunder, and I think getting a 7’1 shot-blocking, Thunder Money ball-making big will only further our rebuild. Just ask Giddey, who is drooling at the chance to play with Chet. And the love seems to be reciprocated on Chet’s end (just look at his Instagram). Buckle up Thunder fans, for the next 22 days are going to be crazy with rumors, mock drafts, the NBA trade machine, and more. The hard part is over. Now, enjoy the build-up to whoever Presti brings into this exciting team!