NBA Rumors: The 4 Trades OKC Could Make to Strike Even More Fear

After starring in one of the most impressive title campaigns of the modern era, the Oklahoma City Thunder have started the 2025-26 season in great form. With the best record in the league (14-1) and a streak of six consecutive victories, the team continues to strengthen its bid to become the next NBA dynasty.

Although the leadership of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren firmly supports the project, it is clear that the depth of the roster is the team's greatest asset. With reserves contributing at all positions, Oklahoma is even capable of maintaining its contender status with a star like Williams out of the rotation.

However, the Western Conference presents fierce competition. To solidify their position as the top championship contender, the Thunder may explore several moves in the market.

With this in mind, we review four potential trades with Eastern Conference teams that would allow OKC to strengthen its bench and optimize the use of its extraordinary draft pick assets. It is worth noting that the basis of these hypothetical trades lies in the franchise's enormous collection of first-round picks for the upcoming draft. With at least three first-round picks next year, the Thunder could benefit from moving some in exchange for future picks and promising young players.

A potential trade with Detroit

Trade proposal

Thunder receive: Jaden Ivey, 2027 first-round pick
Pistons receive: Aaron Wiggins, 2026 first-round pick (PHI)

A move with the Detroit Pistons could be particularly interesting, considering that both are currently two of the best teams in the league.

For the Pistons, the arrival of a first-round pick alongside Aaron Wiggins is appealing. The pick effectively replaces their 2027 choice, while Wiggins would provide depth and scoring on the wing.

Wiggins has earned a significant role in OKC, demonstrating notable offensive growth: 14.8 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, shooting 50.1% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range this season. He could also become an important asset in Detroit.

Since the Pistons seem unwilling to offer an extension to Jaden Ivey, and considering the rumors from the summer, the Thunder would effectively be unblocking the situation.

For Oklahoma, acquiring Ivey would be very significant. With explosive athleticism and potent offensive capabilities, he offers potential as a reliable rotation piece and a star-caliber player. Averaging 16.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game on 42.9% shooting, he could fit in as a playmaker and slasher, although his limited outside shooting might pose initial challenges.

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Nikola Jovic, a future bet

Trade proposal

Thunder receive: Nikola Jovic
Heat receive: Nikola Topic

For the Miami Heat, getting Nikola Topic would help address needs in the playmaking position. Despite having scorers like Norman Powell and Tyler Herro, offensive creation heavily relies on rookie Kasparas Jakucionis. Easing that burden would be crucial.

Topic still presents uncertainties, especially after undergoing surgery for testicular cancer, sidelining him at the start of the season. Despite the risk, Miami might consider the gamble valuable given OKC's previous confidence in him.

In return, Oklahoma would acquire Nikola Jovic, whose shooting big man profile fits seamlessly into the Thunder's system and could benefit from more playing time. Following his standout performance in the EuroBasket, a notable improvement in his output was expected, but a lack of opportunity has left him at 8.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, shooting 40.2% from the field. OKC could seek to unlock his potential.

A trade between finalists: OKC and Indiana

Trade proposal

Thunder receive: Aaron Nesmith, 2028 first-round pick
Pacers receive: Isaiah Joe, 2026 first-round pick (UTA)

This scenario could be particularly relevant for the Indiana Pacers heading into the next season. The arrival of Isaiah Joe would allow them to strengthen their backcourt, while the 2026 first-round pick —despite being protected— holds considerable value, especially given their current position at the bottom of the East.

For OKC, receiving a 2028 first-round pick would help space out their vast pick collection, and Aaron Nesmith would make an immediate impact.

Nesmith has established himself as a reliable player on both ends of the floor. Averaging 15.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 0.8 steals per game, he would bolster the Thunder's depth and provide a significant defensive addition.

For Indiana, far from the level shown at the end of last season and hampered by the absence of key players, this move would make more sense looking ahead to the 2026-27 season, where they are expected to return to full strength.

OKC seeks to enhance its perimeter rotation

Trade proposal

Thunder receive: Coby White
Bulls receive: Isaiah Joe, 2026 first-round pick (PHI)

The name of Coby White surfaced in trade rumors during the summer, and although Chicago rejected offers then, his expiring contract could prompt the Bulls to consider proposals later on.

Receiving Isaiah Joe and a 2026 first-round pick could be an attractive return. Joe has established himself as a reliable shooter: 14.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.7 steals, shooting 43.3% from the field and 40.5% from three-point range. In Chicago, he would fit a role similar to Kevin Huerter, enhancing perimeter production and second-unit contribution.

For Oklahoma, adding White would be an immediate boost. Despite coming off a calf injury, his debut with 27 points showcased his ability to alter offensive dynamics. Without Williams on the court, White would provide fluidity and balance alongside Gilgeous-Alexander, with the possibility of transitioning to the second unit later on.

Does OKC really need to make any moves?

Despite the appeal of these potential deals, it is highly likely that the Thunder will not make any trades in the near term.

Even with significant absences, the team has seen players like Ajay Mitchell and Cason Wallace step up. With consistent contributions from all positions, Oklahoma appears unstoppable. In this context, a trade could be counterproductive and even harm the team's chemistry.

Nevertheless, the future is always uncertain. In case of emergency, the Thunder have sufficient assets to address any immediate roster issues.

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