Undrafted Center from 2025 Class Lands Deal with OKC Thunder

The Oklahoma City Thunder have signed Viktor Lakhin, an undrafted player from the 2025 NBA Draft class, as announced by the team. Lakhin, a 6-foot-11, 245-pound Russian big man, previously played his final NCAA season at Clemson after three years at Cincinnati, where he averaged 11.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.5 blocks, and a steal per game, while shooting 50.7% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range on 1.9 attempts per game.

Lakhin's signing follows the Thunder's decision to waive Jazian Gortman, a guard who also went undrafted in 2023 and had been part of Oklahoma City's summer league team. Due to a crowded roster that includes players like Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, Jaylin Williams, and Kenrich Williams, Lakhin is expected to begin his professional career by competing for a spot with the Oklahoma City Blue in the G League, especially after not playing in summer league games due to an injury.

His skills, including size, passing ability, and defense, align with Oklahoma City's values, and he could potentially serve as a stretch big man. However, Lakhin faces competition for the team's third two-way contract slot, which is currently held by Brooks Barnhizer and Branden Carlson, with Chris Youngblood also in contention after strong preseason performances.

Even if Lakhin does not secure a permanent role with the Thunder, performing well in the G League could position him for opportunities with other NBA teams, making this a solid starting point for his career.