With Lu Dort, Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins all sent to the Eastern Conference, the Thunder\u2019s depth on the wing is a bit shallow. But perhaps most importantly, it\u2019s left a hole in the starting lineup.<\/p>\n
Throughout his tenure with the Thunder <\/a>that lasted seven seasons, Dort was a constant piece of the starting lineup. From the rebuild into becoming a champion, Dort held down a spot on the perimeter at tipoff.<\/p>\n Going into next season, one of the top questions the Thunder have faced is what their new starting five will look like. Given that Oklahoma City\u2019s options consist of Cason Wallace, Ajay Mitchell, Jared McCain and potentially more, Mark Daigneault could have a tough decision ahead.\u00a0<\/p>\n However, the fact that the decision is so tough could be a perfect reason not to make one at all, at least to start the season. While injuries have caused the Thunder to use a plethora of starting fives over the past couple of years, there\u2019s typically been a set starting lineup when healthy for the past few years.<\/p>\n Considering Dort\u2019s spot in the starting five was never questioned, these conversations never needed to happen in the past, especially considering the success of the double-big lineups. Going into next season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein<\/a> should all be usual starters, but Oklahoma City should take advantage of its flexibility when it comes to the fifth man.<\/p>\n Wallace and Mitchell seem to be the likeliest insertions, but McCain\u2019s Western Conference Finals starts add an interesting twist. In any case, it\u2019s undeniable that all three give Oklahoma City unique looks on the floor alongside its stars.\u00a0<\/p>\n Wallace\u2019s defense against opposing stars, Mitchell\u2019s playmaking and McCain\u2019s 3-point shooting could all be factors that swing Daigneault\u2019s starting lineup decision from night to night. The Thunder\u2019s coach has emphasized that the starting five is simply another piece of his rotation, so a rotating fifth starter would be in line with his philosophy.<\/p>\n The starting lineup will be a hot topic, likely throughout the entire season, and the Thunder\u2019s decisions will certainly be something to watch.<\/p>\n
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