Presti Consulted Gilgeous-Alexander on Thunder Roster
The Thunder general manager maintains a collaborative relationship with his two-time MVP star player.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Basketball
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Oklahoma City Thunder General Manager Sam Presti has continued to consult two-time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on team perspectives during the offseason. Presti notes that while he values the star's insight, he avoids asking him to weigh in on specific trade decisions.
Why it matters
The ongoing dialogue between the team's leadership and its franchise cornerstone reflects a collaborative approach as the organization looks to sustain the momentum from its first championship win in 2025.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has earned two MVP awards throughout his career. He is set to begin a max contract starting in the 2027-28 season.
The players
Sam Presti
He serves as the General Manager for the Oklahoma City Thunder and has been a central figure in the team's rise to championship status.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
He is a two-time MVP and the primary franchise player for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Jalen Williams
He is a key core player for the Oklahoma City Thunder who is entering a max contract for the 2026-27 season.
Chet Holmgren
He is a rising star center for the Oklahoma City Thunder who is also beginning a max contract in the 2026-27 season.
The details
Sam Presti manages the Oklahoma City Thunder while balancing long-term roster commitments, including the upcoming max contracts for core players Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren. The team is currently focused on preparing for the 2026-27 season following their inaugural title success.
Timeline
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured their first franchise championship in 2025.
Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren start their max contracts for the 2026-27 season.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will begin his max contract in the 2027-28 season.
Season Trajectory
The collaborative relationship between leadership and star players aims to maintain the championship standard established by the 2025 title. This strategy positions the franchise to remain a top contender as Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren enter their respective max contracts.
The transition of Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren to max contracts in 2026-27 signifies the team's long-term salary cap commitment to its young core. This stability helps ensure the organization remains a title threat without needing constant, disruptive roster turnover.
The takeaway
Maintaining open communication channels between management and star players helps align the organization's long-term goals with its on-court leadership. This approach is essential for teams looking to retain talent while navigating the complexities of multi-year max contract obligations.
Further reading
For more on the current state of the team, visit Oklahoma City Basketball.
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Should star players have a formal role in their team's roster and trade decisions?
