NBA Investigates Thunder for Resting All Starters in Win Over Trail Blazers

The league is reviewing Oklahoma City’s decision to sit five starters during a March 7 game, citing potential violations of its player participation policy.

• The Oklahoma City Thunder rested all five starters, including MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, during their March 7 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.
• Despite the absences, the Thunder secured a decisive 107-89 win, with standout performances from Aaron Wiggins and Jaylin Williams.
• The NBA’s investigation focuses on compliance with the player participation policy, which limits resting multiple starters, particularly during non-back-to-back games.
• The Thunder cited injuries for four starters and listed Gilgeous-Alexander as resting, though the team has faced a demanding post-All-Star schedule.
• This review follows recent fines for similar violations, including $100,000 penalties for both the Utah Jazz and Brooklyn Nets in the past year.

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