The Oklahoma City Thunder have added Russian big man Viktor Lakhin, the team confirmed in a press release.
Lakhin entered the 2025 NBA draft projected by longtime analyst Jonathan Givony as a potential second-round selection, but a torn tendon in his left foot suffered in May sidelined the 6’11” forward/center for roughly three months and he went undrafted. He finished third on ESPN’s list of best available players who were not selected.
The 22-year-old spent three seasons at Cincinnati before transferring to Clemson for his senior year. In 34 games with the Tigers in 2024-25, he averaged 11.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.0 steal and 1.5 blocks across 23.6 minutes, shooting 50.7 percent from the field, 37.5 percent from three and 69.6 percent at the foul line.
Contract terms were not released, but the move is widely expected to be a non-guaranteed Exhibit 10 agreement. If waived before the regular season and he spends at least 60 days with the G League’s OKC Blue, Lakhin would become eligible for a bonus of up to $85,300. Exhibit 10 deals can also be converted to two-way contracts, and Oklahoma City currently has one two-way slot open.
To create roster space, the Thunder waived guard Jazian Gortman, returning the club to the offseason limit of 21 players.
Source: Hoops Rumors
