Enes Kanter: Thunder Hope To Reach New Deal

GM Sam Presti said Wednesday that the Thunder are committed to re-signing Kanter this offseason, The Oklahoman reports.

Analysis:

The Thunder acquired Kanter via trade with the Jazz at the deadline, and he thrived with his new team, averaging 18.7 points and 11.0 rebounds in 31.1 minutes. A restricted free agent this offseason, Kanter is likely to receive a lucrative offer from the Thunder, but he also figures to draw considerable interest from other teams. It's unclear what the Thunder's ceiling is as far as matching another offer, but Presti cited the pending TV deal, and expected salary cap jump, as a reason Oklahoma City may be willing to spend more. If Kanter does return to Oklahoma City, he could shift to a bench role, as Serge Ibaka will return healthy after missing the final month of the season with a knee injury. Kanter told reporters in April that he does not care whether he starts or comes off the bench.