Sam Presti and the Oklahoma City Thunder front office typically conduct their business discreetly and avoid public attention, but in recent days the team’s name has surfaced in several trade conversations leading up to the February 5 NBA trade deadline, especially regarding the possibility of pursuing a center.
“Here’s an interesting name: Isaiah Hartenstein,” said Brian Windhorst on The Hoop Collective Podcast. “He’s got a team option next year for $29 million. I’ve actually heard the Oklahoma City Thunder’s name in some trade chatter.”
Oklahoma City entering trade rumors is somewhat unexpected given that the Thunder are the reigning champions and currently hold the league’s best record.
Still, the organization faces an important financial decision regarding Hartenstein this offseason because of the team option attached to the three-year, $87 million contract he signed in 2024.
The club’s payroll is projected to rise significantly as new extensions for Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren begin, increasing overall salary commitments.
“Why would the Oklahoma City Thunder’s name be out there? And why would the Oklahoma City Thunder’s name be out there potentially looking at centers?” added Windhorst.
The Thunder also drafted center Thomas Sorber with the 15th pick in the 2025 draft, viewing him as a long-term, more cost-controlled option compared to Hartenstein’s larger salary.
However, Sorber tore his ACL in September and will miss the entire season, which adds another layer of uncertainty to Oklahoma City’s frontcourt planning.
Thunder Surface In Trade Rumors Targeting Center Position https://t.co/zZdPlycjq2
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 30, 2026
