The Oklahoma City Thunder have opted to decline their minimum-salary team option on Jaylin Williams to facilitate negotiations for a new contract. According to reports, the team and Williams have come to an agreement on a three-year contract valued at $24 million, with the final year of the deal structured as a team option.
Williams has shown promise as a valuable frontcourt reserve for the Thunder, particularly in the recent championship season. He faced challenges during the 2024/25 season, appearing in only 47 games due to a hamstring injury that pushed back his debut to December 23. Nevertheless, when off the injury list, he proved to be effective, averaging 5.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in about 16.7 minutes per game, with a shooting percentage of .439/.399/.767.
Although his role in the playoffs was limited, Williams contributed by playing backup minutes against Denver during the second round and participated in 17 out of 23 playoff games. By declining his option worth $2.2 million for the 2025/26 season, the Thunder avoided allowing him to enter unrestricted free agency in 2026, instead making him a restricted free agent. This strategic decision enhances the Thunder’s negotiating leverage, echoing similar moves they’ve made with players like Luguentz Dort and Aaron Wiggins in recent years.
Moreover, a recent trade involving Dillon Jones has positioned the Thunder comfortably under the luxury tax threshold. With the luxury tax line estimated at $187.9 million and the Thunder’s projected salary at $186 million, the team can afford to provide Williams with a salary increase for the 2025/26 season while remaining financially strategic.
This proactive approach not only secures Williams’ talents for the immediate future but reflects the Thunder’s commitment to building a competitive roster while managing salary effectively.