What happened: Onsi Saleh reworked his reserve unit ahead of the 2026-27 campaign by targeting Oklahoma City's salary crunch for two additions and selecting a 19-year-old prospect in the draft. Those acquisitions replace a former bench trio that featured Keaton Wallace, Vit Krejci, and Luke Kennard.

Why it matters: Kennard's July signing with Phoenix alongside turnover on the second unit created an immediate need for playable depth. Leveraging a rival's cap pressure allowed the front office to replenish multiple rotation spots while pairing veteran additions with youth on a rookie-scale contract.

What to watch: Preseason exhibition action continues this month as the revamped second unit competes for regular-season rotation minutes.