Thunder Send Ibaka to Magic for Oladipo, Sabonis

Damontas Sabonis, who the Orlando Magic took with the 11th pick on Thursday night, helps fill the massive void left by Ibaka in the frontcourt, while Ersan Ilyasova gives Billy Donovan’s team a much-needed sense of stretch at power forward.

Sources told the Norman Transcript that the Thunder had listened to deals involving Ibaka as early as at this past February’s trade deadline, when they weren’t able to find a partner. Apparently, things changed at the end of this season.

“I think the number one thing with Victor is makeup”, Thunder general manager Sam Presti said. “He’s been a great citizen of Oklahoma City, and we’re confident that he’s going to continue his career trajectory with the Magic in Orlando”.

“I want to acknowledge Serge for his contributions to the ongoing legacy of the Thunder. We wish him and Ersan (Ilyasova) the best of luck in the future”.

Set to become an unrestricted free agent at age 27 next summer when cap space is bound to be plentiful, Ibaka will fetch big money and a long-term commitment thanks to his proven rim protection, ability to space the floor and extensive postseason experience. Ibaka will be missed, without question, but the Thunder can make the case to Durant that his supporting cast just got deeper, younger and more sustainable. Overall the Thunder were the big winners because they sent a strong message to Durant that they are all in to winning a championship.

It’s easy to see why Oklahoma City made this move, basically.

Sabonis said on ESPN after he was greeted by Commissioner Adam Silver that he had been informed that he will be traded to Oklahoma City. The trade came for more nuanced reasons, though. He averaged 11.7 points and 8.3 rebounds last season as a sophomore. He could also serve as a cheaper option to replace Waiters in a similar role should the Thunder decide to let their sixth man walk this summer. For the time being, they’ll be in a backcourt together. A skilled and intelligent big man who came on strong last season at Gonzaga, the son of former worldwide star Arvydas Sabonis has all the makings of a long-term pro.