Why the Trade Benefits the Thunder

The Thunder have one way to go this season and that is to rebuild and get younger. Chris Paul is not a part of that equation, so he should be on the move and there will be plenty of suitors.

The return will not be huge because of the money that Paul is owed. It is upwards of $41 million next season and $44 million in 2021-2022. Oklahoma City would land Wiggins, who has been looking for a steady home since he entered the league.

Looney is a nice young player along with two draft picks. The Thunder are loaded with draft capital over the next few years and this would give them some more. The rebuild should be based through the draft and if Wiggins can perform consistently.

After a postseason appearance, the Thunder would like to get back, but it is clear that they overachieved this season. With Paul gone, the rebuild will officially begin.