Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti remains optimistic despite roster changes

Oklahoma City Thunder executive vice president and general manager Sam Presti expressed confidence in the team's potential during his annual preseason media availability. Despite significant roster changes aimed at reducing the salary cap by over $300 million—including the departures of Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe, and Aaron Wiggins—Presti believes the core group can reach or exceed previous performance levels.

Presti highlighted the team's key talent, noting that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams represent a high-level core, with two players yet to reach their athletic prime. He specifically noted that Williams appears to be in excellent form following previous injury struggles.

Addressing broader league changes, Presti discussed the impact of the new NBA lottery format. He suggested that the changes could lead to a more competitive bottom tier of the league, potentially resulting in lower NET ratings and records more reminiscent of the 1980s as teams are incentivized to compete more aggressively.