The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without several key players for their preseason opener. The team is set to face the Charlotte Hornets on the road, kicking off a multi-week stretch of games.
The absences come as no surprise, given that this is the first game of a challenging road back-to-back. According to Thunder reporter Nick Gallo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, Lu Dort, Cason Wallace, Isaiah Hartenstein, Alex Caruso, and Ajay Mitchell will all be sidelined for the game.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault confirmed these absences during his pregame media availability. Fans can expect the team to manage player minutes carefully as they navigate the demanding preseason schedule.
https://okcthunderwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/thunder/2025/10/05/8-thunder-players-to-sit-out-in-preseason-opener-against-hornets/86539199007/
