What happened: An NBA insider analyzed the Oklahoma City Thunder's front office thinking following the recent trade of Lu Dort. The franchise shed $224 million in salary during a three-team transaction that sent the defensive wing to the Hawks.

Why it matters: General manager Sam Presti called the move a financial decision designed to help the team avoid the second apron. Shedding the $18.2 million salary provides the organization with flexibility for future roster iterations.

What to watch: The front office is expected to leverage its created space and three newly acquired second-round picks in upcoming acquisitions.