NBA Mock Draft: OKC Thunder Add Rebounding Reinforcements in Top 10

The Oklahoma City Thunder lost 122-120 to the Miami Heat, marking their eighth loss of the season. Despite making one more field goal, the Thunder were outshot significantly, with the Heat attempting 111 field goals to OKC's 77. A key factor was Miami's rebounding advantage; they secured 51 total rebounds, including 21 offensive boards, compared to OKC's 46 total and only 5 offensive rebounds. This continues a trend, as it was the second straight game the Thunder were out-rebounded.

To address their rebounding issues, the Thunder could see improvement with the return of Isaiah Hartenstein. Furthermore, a recent 2026 NBA mock draft projection suggests the team may target rebounders. At the 8th pick, the projection has OKC selecting Yaxel Lendeborg, a 6'8" Michigan big man averaging 7.1 rebounds, known for his defense, passing, and a 7'4" wingspan.

At the 19th pick, the mock draft pairs the Thunder with Joshua Jefferson, a 6'9" Iowa State senior averaging 7.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists, whose skillset is seen as similar to Hartenstein's. Finally, at the 23rd pick, the projection has OKC adding Iowa point guard Bennett Stirtz, a 6'4" player averaging 18.2 points and 5.0 assists, who would bolster the bench as a shooter and playmaker.