The Oklahoma City Thunder are back in the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012, and the fingerprints of Paul George’s blockbuster trade are everywhere on this year’s roster. But what’s the real story behind the Thunder’s transformation?
In 2019, the Thunder sent Paul George to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for a massive haul: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, and a trove of future first-round picks. That deal, initially seen as a reset, has become the foundation of OKC’s 2025 Finals run. Gilgeous-Alexander, acquired in that trade, is now the league’s MVP and the centerpiece of a roster built for sustained contention.
The Thunder’s current lineup features a mix of blue-chip prospects and under-the-radar talent. Alongside Gilgeous-Alexander, All-NBA forward Jalen Williams—drafted with a pick acquired in the George trade—has emerged as a star. The roster also boasts Chet Holmgren, Cason Wallace, and Isaiah Joe, blending youth with experience. Veteran additions like Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein round out a deep, versatile squad.
OKC’s 2024-25 roster includes:.
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG, MVP).
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Jalen Williams (F, All-NBA).
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Chet Holmgren (PF).
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Luguentz Dort (G).
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Isaiah Joe (SG).
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Alex Caruso (SG).
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Isaiah Hartenstein (C).
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Cason Wallace (G).
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Aaron Wiggins (SG).
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Ousmane Dieng (F).
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Kenrich Williams (SF).
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And several promising young players.
The Thunder’s rise is a direct result of the assets gained from moving George. Those picks have already produced stars and will continue shaping the roster for years, with more first-round selections still in the pipeline.
As OKC faces the Indiana Pacers—ironically, George’s original team—in the Finals, the impact of that 2019 trade is impossible to ignore. The Thunder have turned a superstar’s exit into the NBA’s most enviable young roster, and the journey is far from over.
