The Oklahoma City Thunder took a significant hit on Sunday, learning that rising star Chet Holmgren will be sidelined for the next eight to ten weeks due to a right iliac wing fracture.
The injury occurred during Sunday’s 127-116 home loss to the Golden State Warriors. While the Thunder confirmed Holmgren is expected to make a full recovery this season, they may need to consider adding reinforcements to stay competitive in a loaded Western Conference.
With a strong 8-2 start and third place in the West, the Thunder are in a good position, but they may not want to rely solely on their current roster for the next couple of months. If they decide to pursue trade options, here are five potential targets who could help Oklahoma City remain on track.
1. Jonas Valančiūnas, Washington Wizards
Valančiūnas could offer the Thunder a powerful inside presence. Known for his traditional big-man style, he excels as a post scorer and relentless rebounder. Although his outside shot remains inconsistent, Valančiūnas’s experience and physicality could help OKC maintain stability in the paint during Holmgren’s absence. The best part? He likely wouldn’t be costly in terms of trade value, making him a viable short-term solution.
2. Cam Johnson, Brooklyn Nets
Johnson would be a valuable long-term investment rather than a short-term rental. With three seasons left on a $69 million contract running through 2027, he may not fit the salary flexibility needs of every team, but he would align well with the Thunder’s young core. Johnson’s shooting range and defensive versatility would make him a seamless fit alongside OKC’s developing talent, adding depth now and bolstering their roster for years to come.
Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images
3. Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers
Grant, a versatile forward and former Thunder player, would bring defensive prowess and scoring ability. Although the Thunder already have players in Grant’s mold, his experience could be beneficial for a playoff push. Grant, now 30, can guard multiple positions and offer leadership that complements the Thunder’s younger stars. Acquiring him would be a bolder move, given his age and fit with the current roster, but his contributions on both ends would undoubtedly benefit the team.
4. Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers
Known for his defensive intensity, Williams could add much-needed rim protection for the Thunder. Despite his impressive skill set, however, Williams has struggled with injury issues, including multiple knee surgeries and a recent hamstring strain that has kept him sidelined this season. With two years remaining on a reasonable $13 million per-season contract, Williams could provide OKC with a high-upside player if he can stay healthy. His defensive abilities would support the Thunder’s quest to remain defensively sound without Holmgren.
5. Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz
At just 23 years old, Kessler is an intriguing option as he fits OKC’s timeline while still contributing immediately. As one of the league’s hottest young centers, Kessler’s defensive skills and rebounding could fill the gap left by Holmgren’s absence. The Jazz could be willing to trade him for the right package, making him a potentially perfect addition for both present and future needs.
In a deep Western Conference, the Thunder have the talent and potential to stay competitive, but their response to Holmgren’s injury could define their season. These players would each bring a different type of support to the team, with varying levels of experience, defensive skill, and contract flexibility. As the Thunder look to maintain their strong start, the decision to add reinforcements—or not—will be pivotal.
More news: Shaquille O’Neal Blames Steph Curry, Warriors For Lower NBA Ratings
For more Thunder and NBA news, make sure to head over to Newsweek Sports.