The Oklahoma City Thunder are finalizing their starting lineup for the 2026-27 NBA season, with a key decision looming at the fifth spot. This comes after a summer of roster moves and a tough end to their previous campaign, including a 103-111 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on May 31, 2026. The team's recent form shows one win and four losses in their last five outings.
Who are the Oklahoma City Thunder's returning starters?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the core after winning his second consecutive MVP award. He averaged 31.1 points and a career-high 6.6 assists last season. At 28, he remains the NBA's top point guard and a dominant two-way force.
Jalen Williams is back after an injury-plagued year limited him to 33 games. The 2025 All-NBA and All-Defensive selection has had the summer to recover. Chet Holmgren also returns following an All-NBA Third Team and All-Defensive First Team season where he posted 17.1 points and 8.9 rebounds per game.
Isaiah Hartenstein solidified his place by signing a three-year, $75 million deal this offseason. His rebounding, screen setting, and rim protection make him an established starter alongside Holmgren. You can view the full roster on our [squad](/squad) page.
Who is competing for the Oklahoma City Thunder's fifth starting spot?
The departure of Lu Dort in a cost-saving trade opened a significant role. Cason Wallace is a prime candidate after starting 58 games last season. An All-Defensive second-team guard, his point-of-attack defense is a major asset. His three-point shooting jumped to 48.4% in the playoffs after a 35.1% regular season mark.
Ajay Mitchell is the other main contender. He shined as a starter during last year's playoffs when Williams was hurt. Over seven games, Mitchell averaged 18.4 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.9 rebounds on 46.7% shooting. He's a better shot creator than Wallace but not quite as strong defensively.
What does the Oklahoma City Thunder's bench look like?
Alex Caruso remains a consistent contributor off the bench, even during last season's injury crisis. The Thunder also added rookies Aday Mara, Bennett Stirtz, Otega Oweh, and Josh Dix this summer. These young players will provide depth and development options for the long season ahead.
The team's offseason moves, including trading Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe, were largely financial decisions. Sam Presti and the front office are balancing immediate contention with future flexibility. With a core of Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, Holmgren, and Hartenstein locked in, the fifth starter choice could shift based on matchups. Mitchell's offensive creation might be preferred against certain opponents, while Wallace's elite defense could be the default. The answer will shape their early season identity as they aim to improve on their recent 1-4 form.
