It hasn't even been a week since the Oklahoma City Thunder won the NBA championship, but they have already traded a player to save money and open up a roster spot.
On Saturday, just six days after they beat the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the NBA Finals for the Larry O'Brien Trophy, the Thunder traded forward Dillon Jones to the Washington Wizards, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.
Oklahoma City also sent a second-round pick to the Wizards to make the deal happen, while the team received guard Colby Jones — who was quickly waived after the transaction was completed.
The Thunder had traded five second-round picks to the New York Knicks for the draft rights to Dillon Jones in 2024. He proceeded to play 54 games (with three starts) for OKC in his rookie season, averaging 2.5 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.1 assists.
In the playoffs, the 23-year-old didn't get a lot of opportunities to play, suiting up in just 10 of 23 games and averaging 2.3 points.
While Dillon Jones had a limited role for the Thunder in their run to the championship, several fans still couldn't help but feel bad at how fast things changed for him. Not only did he not get enough chance to enjoy the win longer, but he went from a championship contender to a rebuilding franchise.
"What about Dillon Jones day," a fan wrote along with a crying emoji. It references the special day that Oklahoma City's Mayor David Holt declared to celebrate each member of the Thunder's championship roster.
"Couldn’t even wait until after Dillon Jones Day on July 14th smh," a social media user doubled down.
A commenter added, "Imagine winning a chip and getting traded to Washington."
"I’d hate to be the guy shipped off the defending champs for nothing icl," a supporter remarked. Another one echoed a similar sentiment, noting, "Imagine being traded to the Wizards for air after winning a championship."
"Hate to see him go lowkey," a follower shared.
USA: Oklahoma City Thunder forward Dillon Jones (3) runs down the court between plays against the Houston Rockets during the second half at Paycom Center.
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Dillon Jones (3).
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
According to The Oklahoman, the Thunder are now $9.5 million under the luxury tax following the trade. They also opened up a roster spot for their latest first-round pick, Thomas Sorber, who was taken 15th overall in the recent draft.