If the NBA expands, the Oklahoma City Thunder could face a new rival in the Western Conference. However, Thunder GM Sam Presti is ready for the challenge and supports Adam Silver‘s bold vision. While some see expansion as far-fetched, others favor the idea. This conversation has been ongoing for the past three years, but no one knows when or how it will happen. Yet, the excitement continues to grow.

As the team’s press conference kicked off, the front office’s vision became clear. When asked about NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s commitment, Sam Presti didn’t hesitate. He knew exactly what he hoped for from a potential expansion. Presti shared his thoughts with confidence, outlining a change he’s hoping for. Moreover, his insight added intrigue to the ongoing conversation.

Since Silver’s vision is uncertain, Presti chose not to comment on the topic. He shared what he hopes to see altered in the league and hinted at the possibility of expansion. “Well, I definitely can’t talk specifically about expansion because there’s no telling when or if that can even be talked about or discussed. And I can speak a little bit about the rules, and I think if and when that ever happens.” The GM also added: “I think the thing to note about the rules is that a lot of the expansion rules relative to the personnel stuff were written in 1980. They haven’t changed since 1980.” 

He further mentioned that Silver has been really good for the NBA and has done an “unbelievable job.”  Presti said that the NBA commissioner has “modernized the league in every single possible way.” Sam Presti believes NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has transformed the league, particularly by modernizing the sport. However, he noted the current regulations have been in existence since “Bird and Magic were rookies.” So, if the rules change, the outdated format from four decades ago could finally evolve.

Adam Silver is one of the most powerful sporting executives. The NBA’s boss has been running the show for a decade now, focusing primarily on the future of sports media, player development, and others. Therefore, it isn’t surprising that he sees a more consolidated and bright future for the NBA. And maybe, the expansion plans and the execution of changes in the redundant rules could be the first few steps ahead.

Adam Silver’s impact on basketball is truly remarkable

Since 2014, the basketball scenes have changed considerably. Adam Silver paved the way for new leagues like the WNBA and the NBA G League. Moreover, the 62-year-old Commissioner has facilitated the basketball boom overseas in countries like China and Africa. Meanwhile, Adam Silver’s tenure as NBA commissioner has been marked by swift and decisive action. Early in his role, he made headlines by banning former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling for life and later fined him $2.5 million.

Silver was instrumental in the sale of both the Clippers and the Phoenix Suns after several controversies. He took swift action to maintain the league’s integrity. Beyond handling these issues, Silver has pushed the NBA’s global expansion. This has significantly increased the value of NBA teams. Today, the average team is worth $4 billion. This marks an impressive six-fold growth over the past decade. Adam Silver has also led modern innovations in the NBA. He pioneered new media strategies like streaming games on social platforms. Silver’s ultimate goal is the greater good of the sport, so the basketball community largely welcomes his visionary ideas.

Named Sports Business Journal’s executive of the decade in 2019, Adam Silver keeps pushing boundaries. He will surely consider Sam Presti’s requests as they will only help in enhancing the league’s experience. Coming back to the NBA expansion plan- it remains uncertain as of now, but who knows what the future holds?