Oklahoma City Thunder prepare for 2026-27 season with new lineup combinations

The Oklahoma City Thunder enter the 2026-27 NBA season as co-title favorites alongside the San Antonio Spurs. Coach Mark Daigneault faces roster adjustments after summer trades thinned the team's depth, leading to new potential lineup configurations. The starting group shifts to feature Cason Wallace alongside core players Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, and Isaiah Hartenstein. Crunch-time units remain fluid, with Ajay Mitchell and Alex Caruso under consideration for closing roles. The team also prepares for different tactical demands, including shooting-heavy and size-focused lineups, to offset the loss of bench perimeter shooters. Younger players face increased expectations as the roster integrates new pieces into the established core.

• 5:00 PMYahoo Sports — Breaking down potential lineups for the 2026-27 OKC Thunder