The Oklahoma City Thunder made a bold move by re-signing forward Aaron Wiggins to a new five-year contract worth $47 million. The agreement followed the team’s decision to decline Wiggins’ $2 million team option, instead opting for a long-term commitment that awards him $45 million in new money and a significant salary bump for the upcoming season. At 25 years old, Wiggins has become a crucial player in the Thunder’s rotation, a surprising development given that he was the 55th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. His recent averages of 6.9 points per game in roughly 16 minutes of play showcase how he has outperformed expectations since joining the league.
Wiggins’ versatility on both ends of the court, combined with his ability to come off the bench and contribute, has solidified his place in the Thunder’s plans. The franchise’s general manager, Sam Presti, recognized Wiggins as a key rotation player, particularly for the second unit, making the decision to extend his contract more understandable despite the unexpected price tag. Wiggins’ growth over the past two seasons has been notable, and this extension ensures that Oklahoma City retains a promising, homegrown talent who fits into their long-term strategy of building a competitive roster.
This extension further highlights Oklahoma City’s focus on maintaining roster continuity as the team continues to rebuild with young talent. The Thunder have been stockpiling draft picks in recent years and are developing a core of young players, with Wiggins now part of that foundation. His contributions have helped the team maintain competitiveness while fostering the growth of other players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey, both of whom are central to the team’s rebuilding efforts.
Overall, Wiggins’ new contract is a reflection of Oklahoma City’s trust in his continued development and their commitment to creating a stable roster environment. His ability to deliver consistent performances off the bench and his willingness to adapt have made him a valuable asset for the Thunder. As the team looks to continue its upward trajectory in the coming seasons, Wiggins will play an integral role in their quest to return to playoff contention.
