Thunder's biggest free agency splash has yet to be realized

The Oklahoma City Thunder will have no roster space for new standard contracts this summer after signing first-round pick Thomas Sorber. However, they still have two-way contract slots available, which permit players to split time between the NBA and development team without exceeding the 15-player roster limit.

Oklahoma City is reportedly focused on using a two-way contract to retain rookie center Branden Carlson. The Thunder have officially tendered him a two-way qualifying offer, making him a restricted free agent and giving OKC the right to match any offer he receives from other teams.

Despite not being one of the most discussed 2024 rookies, the 26-year-old Carlson showed promise. In limited action over 32 games, he averaged 3.8 points, 1.7 rebounds, shot 33.3% from long range, and posted an elite blocks percentage of 8.6. Advanced metrics with him on court were exceptional: 129.9 points per 100 possessions, a 59.9% effective field goal percentage, a +18.8 point differential (all 98th percentile or higher), and a 105.8 defensive rating.

In games with double-digit minutes, Carlson averaged 10.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks. He notably scored 26 points with 10 rebounds and 3 blocks in the regular-season finale against the Pelicans. His 7-foot, 220-pound frame with a 7-foot-4 wingspan further supports his potential as a legitimate NBA rotation player worthy of a full-time contract.

By extending the qualifying offer, the Thunder have a chance to bring Carlson back on a two-way deal for a second consecutive season, which would be considered a valuable move for the team.