The Player Who's the X-Factor for the Thunder

News ArticlePublishedJul 31, 2026 at 12:44 PM EDTThe Oklahoma City Thunder didn't have many weaknesses last season, but the playoffs exposed a couple of areas they couldn't ignore.That cost them.Mainly, their frontcourt needed more size.Oklahoma City ran into problems against San Antonio, especially trying to deal with Victor Wembanyama's presence inside. The Thunder's smaller lineup worked for most of the year, but the postseason showed there are moments when having a bigger body can completely change a matchup.That's why Aday Mara is such an interesting addition. He's their x-factor this season.More news: The Dallas Mavericks’ X-Factor This Season...The Thunder selected the 7-foot-3 center with the No. 12 pick, giving them a player unlike anyone else on their roster. Mara isn't just a tr