OKC Thunder Set For Jared McCain-Like Trade, Insider Says

The Oklahoma City Thunder are expected to pursue a trade for a cost-controlled player on a rookie contract rather than targeting an expensive star this season, according to NBA insider Brett Siegel. With recent injuries impacting Jalen Williams, Cason Williams, Chet Holmgren, and Alex Caruso, general manager Sam Presti is reportedly preparing to leverage surplus draft assets or young players to address roster depth, mirroring the previous trade that brought Jared McCain to OKC.

Siegel identified Nikola Topic and Thomas Sorber as potential trade chips for the franchise, while also noting that McCain himself could become a trade asset. Sacramento Kings wing Nique Clifford was cited as an archetype target who fits Oklahoma City's opportunistic strategy. Additionally, the Thunder recently declined Topic's $7.4 million team option for the 2027–28 season, positioning him to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.