Oklahoma City Thunder clear space for potential LeBron James signing
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 20, 2026, 4:30 AM
Last updated Jul 20, 2026
On July 20, 2026, the Oklahoma City Thunder traded Lu Dort to the Atlanta Hawks, acquiring three second-round picks. This trade is seen as a strategic move by general manager Sam Presti to enhance draft capital and gain financial flexibility under the NBA’s luxury tax rules. The change may allow the Thunder to pursue LeBron James, who is currently a free agent and reportedly willing to sign for the veteran minimum to win another championship. Oklahoma City has built a strong roster, making it an attractive option for James if he seeks to compete for a title again.
- •Thunder traded Lu Dort to Hawks for three second-round picks.
- •Sam Presti aims for long-term success and financial flexibility.
- •LeBron James is a free agent willing to take a veteran minimum deal.
- •Oklahoma City has a strong roster and is defending champion.
- •The trade opens up a potential opportunity for a LeBron addition.
- 4:30 AMYahoo Sports — Thunder Just Created A Theoretical Pathway To Bring LeBron James To OKC
"By clearing roster space and navigating luxury tax hurdles, Sam Presti has positioned the defending champions to potentially lure the NBA's all-time leading scorer for one final title.
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