Victor Wembanyama Could Force OKC Thunder to Make Massive Trade

After losing only once to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the regular season and beating them in the NBA playoffs, the San Antonio Spurs cemented themselves as the best team in the Western Conference. Victor Wembanyama dominated Chet Holmgren in the postseason on both ends of the floor, making him look scared to even receive the ball. In their rookie seasons, Holmgren and Wemby were touted as rivals. Since then, though, Wembanyama has clearly passed him. If Holmgren is unable to fix his reputation in OKC, he could be a casualty of their inevitable roster reshuffle in the face of the second apron. READ MORE: San Antonio Spurs Reveal Exact Moment They Went After Victor Wembanyama READ MORE: Victor Wembanyama Hints at Free Agency Signing He Wants Spurs to Make READ MORE: Ceilings for Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper Revealed Wemby Could Force Thunder to Cut Holmgren In the next two summers, Cason Wallace, Ajay Mitchell, Jaylin Williams, and Jared McCain are all eligible for extensions. Wallace, Williams, and McCain thrived against the Spurs, hitting big shots and playing lockdown defense. Had Holmgren carried his weight, they probably would have won back-to-back titles. The Thunder will struggle to pay those guys, but getting Holmgren off the roster would open up $239.2 million over five seasons. Previously considered unthinkable, trading him to retain their depth is becoming more and more realistic. "The second apron is rearing its ugly head with OKC in real time and will continue to do so as long as the Thunder keep that big three together," wrote The Athletic's Zach Harper. "They might have to make a big-time decision soon. If Holmgren continues to struggle against Victor Wembanyama when it matters most, then maybe that decision becomes easier." The second apron isn't a major concern for the Spurs. Not only are their best players still on rookie deals, but Wembanyama's pay cut ensures that they will retain flexibility rarely had by contending teams. In the Conference Finals, Holmgren averaged only 10.7 points, taking only two shots in a decisive Game 7. Of course, one bad series doesn't mean he's off the team, but it'll be an uphill battle for him. If the Thunder make Holmgren available, expect the trade market to be red-hot. Despite his recent shortcomings, he is one of the best defensive players in the NBA and a solid offensive option. He just doesn't fare well against the one player he's supposed to stand up to.