Thunder Target Herb Jones, Derrick Jones Jr.

Jalen Williams is out long term with a dislocated left ankle and broken fibula, while Cason Wallace is sidelined for months with a shoulder injury. Eric Pincus suggests Oklahoma City could chase Pelicans wing Herb Jones and Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. using trade exceptions, Thomas Sorber, two 2027 first-round picks, and second-rounders. Herb Jones would bring switchable defense and has fallen to 17 minutes per game in New Orleans. Derrick Jones Jr. adds another athletic wing defender on an expiring deal. The problem is cost: both moves would push Oklahoma City near $119 million in luxury-tax penalties and above the second apron.