OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Thunder enter the 2025-26 season as reigning champions and with a roster boasting extraordinary depth, but a key question remains: is their starting five definitively set? Despite a remarkably stable offseason that saw Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, Jaylin Williams, and Ajay Mitchell all sign contract extensions – contributing to a 99.2% player retention rate – head coach mark Daigneault’s history suggests lineup flexibility.
As taking the helm in 2020, Daigneault has consistently adjusted his rotations. Last season, injuries prompted frequent starting lineup changes, but once Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein found a rhythm together in February, the first five remained consistent through the NBA Finals, with Hartenstein eventually transitioning to a sixth-man role. This precedent indicates that while a primary lineup is likely, Daigneault isn’t averse to strategic adjustments.
A likely starting five of Gilgeous-Alexander, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, Holmgren, and Hartenstein is expected to be the foundation for the Thunder. This configuration allows Williams to play a more natural position while maximizing the collective talent on the court. Though,the team is prepared to adapt,particularly against guard-heavy opponents.
In those matchups, inserting Cason Wallace in place of Hartenstein could bolster the Thunder’s perimeter defense, leveraging Wallace’s floor spacing and cutting ability on offense. Throughout the 2024 Western Conference Finals against the Timberwolves, Oklahoma City frequently staggered the minutes of Holmgren and Hartenstein, often playing only one center at a time.
Ultimately, the “double big” lineup with Holmgren and Hartenstein is anticipated to be the primary driver, with option groups strategically deployed. Hartenstein’s acceptance of a bench role during the Finals demonstrates a team-first mentality, suggesting that regular-season lineup adjustments won’t disrupt the Thunder’s focus. The continued development of Holmgren’s three-point shooting, particularly as he further recovers from a Nov. 10 hip fracture,will also be a key factor in evaluating lineup effectiveness.
