OKC unlikely to trade Steven Adams unless the team lowers its asking price for the big man

Now that OKC has pushed the reset switch, the team is expected to unload some of its older players, including reliable center Steven Adams. Adams has been an integral piece for the Thunder in the past, but due to Russell Westbrook getting traded to the Rockets and Paul George getting sent to the Lakers, there’s no core left for the team to build upon.

Steven Adams is a player who has always have a good track record on and off the court. He has never stepped out of line and never been the subject of controversy. And has been level-headed dude since playing in the NBA.

A lot of teams want that sort of mentality, especially for someone who’s constantly playing under the rim where the game is far more physical. Indeed, several teams have reportedly asked OKC for Steven Adams’s asking price including the Kings, Spurs, Celtics, and Mavericks, Heavy reported.

Steven Adams’ asking price is too high

The problem is that the Thunder are apparently asking too high of a price for the big man. This didn’t sit well with the aforementioned teams, so they didn’t make a play for Steven Adams.

“It’s tough to take on his contract (two years, $53 million remaining) and give up picks and players,” an executive said. “Most teams are pretty well set at the center spot now, you have a big guy, and you have your small lineup.” Despite this, however, there is a possibility that OKC will lower its asking price for Steven Adams once the season starts.

Steven Adams should vary us playstyle

Adams could also take this as an opportunity for growth. The center averaged 13.9 points and 9.5 rebounds in the previous year. If he can bump those numbers up in the upcoming season, then Steven Adams can potentially increase the interest surrounding him. He should also look to improve other aspects of his game as well.

Part of the reason why teams are reluctant to commit to the New Zealand native is that he’s playstyle is old school. Nowadays, teams want centers who can space the floor or make plays on the court. Steven Adams doesn’t have both those attributes.

Of course, there are still teams that can use him, especially those who already got the offensive side covered and is in need of someone who can man the paint and snatch rebounds. But unless OKC lowers Steven Adams’s price, it’s unlikely that he’ll be going anywhere anytime soon.