The Oklahoma City Thunder have risen to the NBA elite rank this season, with the best record in the league under MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. With its high-scoring offense and stingy defense, OKC has emerged as one of the most well-rounded teams recently.

But success is expensive—in more ways than one. While the OKC is gearing up for future rookie extensions of young stars Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, the team may soon be forced to make difficult choices. That may leave the door open for teams such as the Chicago Bulls to step in.

Isaiah Joe Attracting Trade Rumors as OKC Experiences Salary Issues

NBA Trade Rumors: Thunder's Roster in Trouble? Isaiah Joe NBA Trade Rumors: Thunder's Roster in Trouble? Isaiah Joe
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One name causing excitement is Isaiah Joe. According to Athlon Sports, the deadly shooting guard has been a quiet contributor as one of the league's top bench scorers and floor spacers. With three years remaining on his existing contract, including a team-friendly $11.3 million option in 2026-27, Joe is an affordable commodity with rising value.

Joe is averaging more than two made three-pointers per game with a 41.2% splash rate since joining OKC's rotation in the 2022–23 season. Throw in his gritty defense, and he's not only a shooter — he's a winning asset.

Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley pointed out Joe's potential fit in a system like Chicago's, particularly with Josh Giddey:

"Isaiah Joe ranks favorably among the best spacers in basketball. Since becoming a rotation regular in 2022-23, he has averaged 2.2 triples with a 41.2 percent splash rate. And he provides all that net-shredding while also being a competent and pesky player at the defensive end."

Chicago Bulls Target Upgrade with Elite Perimeter Shooting

The Chicago Bulls, sitting near .500, might have a chance at Joe if the Thunder start prioritizing financial flexibility. Joe's shooting would integrate perfectly into Chicago's system, which has been missing steady outside threats.

Alongside Giddey, who loves having solid shooters around him, Joe might give the Bulls' offense a boost and offer a core piece to help break out of mediocrity.

Can the Thunder Maintain Their Core?

OKC's front office, headed up by GM Sam Presti, is confronted for the first time with a meaningful challenge in this new era. With the increase in the NBA salary cap, there is optimism that the Thunder can hold their young stars close while retaining role players such as Joe.

But as Buckley points out, OKC can find a "cheaper version" of Joe. If searching for a replacement for draft picks is the solution, the team could capitalize on this opportunity instead of retaining high-salaried role players.

Thunder's Draft Assets Provide Leeway, But Trade Rumors Intensify

The Thunder have one of the richest war chests of draft capital in NBA history. That gets them positioned to make big trades or pursue top free agents, but it also means making difficult decisions about who stays and who goes.

Isaiah Joe is perhaps not the largest name in the franchise, but his talent level and price point make him the kind of prospect that teams like the Bulls covet to get rich in an expensive market.