The Oklahoma City Thunder are paying dearly to put the best product on the court that they can.
The Thunder have 11 players under contract for 2018-19 now that they’ve agreed to deals with Paul George and Jerami Grant. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, their payroll is projected to be $156 million. Their luxury tax bill would be at least $130 million due to their status as a multiple repeat violator.
With Paul George and Jerami Grant on board, Oklahoma City now has a payroll of $156M with 11 players under contract. Because of the repeater tax penalty, the Thunder currently have a tax bill of $130M. The tax bill would be the largest in NBA history.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) July 1, 2018
What really kills the Thunder is the Carmelo Anthony contract. Melo was a bust for them last season and opted into his contract for just under $28 million this year. The team could significantly reduce their tax bill if they waive him via the stretch provision.
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— Chris Bennett (@chrisgb00) July 1, 2018
You have to wonder whether the Thunder will consider this option.
Between George and Russell Westbrook, they will be paying around $70 million. Add in Steven Adams, Andre Roberson and Grant, and you’re at around $110 million, which pushes them well over the salary cap. They’ll have to seriously weigh keeping Melo.
