Viktor Lakhin’s path to the NBA took an unexpected turn despite early projections labeling him as a potential second-round pick.
Jonathan Givony of ESPN had included the 6’11” forward/center among the notable prospects in the 2025 draft class, but a torn tendon in his left foot suffered in May stalled his rise.
The injury, expected to sideline him for about three months, played a major role in him going undrafted.
Even so, Lakhin remained one of the more coveted undrafted players, ranking third on ESPN’s best available list after the draft concluded.
Before arriving at Clemson for his senior season, the Russian big man spent three years at Cincinnati.
In his lone season with the Tigers in 2024/25, he delivered solid production: 11.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.0 steal, and 1.5 blocks in just 23.6 minutes per game.
He shot efficiently as well, posting a .507 field goal percentage, .375 from deep, and .696 from the foul line.
While contract figures were not officially disclosed, it’s widely believed that the Oklahoma City Thunder signed Lakhin to an Exhibit 10 contract – a non-guaranteed deal commonly used to funnel players to the G League.
Should he be waived before the season and then spend at least 60 days with the OKC Blue, he could receive a bonus of up to $85,300.
There’s also the possibility of that Exhibit 10 being converted into a two-way contract.
The Thunder currently have one two-way slot open, which technically keeps the door ajar for Lakhin, though the timing suggests it isn’t the most likely outcome.
To clear roster space for his signing, Oklahoma City released guard Jazian Gortman, bringing their offseason roster back to the 21-player limit.
Thunder Sign Viktor Lakhin https://t.co/0LxTEU0PtI pic.twitter.com/neuiFO9MDg
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) October 12, 2025
