For the first cut Derrick Favors was the easiest one to cut because of his 10.1 across this single season 2022/2023, he does not fit the timeline of this young thunder team and as a result would cede playing time to younger players.

Next is Ty Jerome making 4.2 mil on a team option the Thunder have a choice to keep him on that salary/extend him or cut him. Imo Jerome last season did not display enough for the Thunder to keep him on the upcoming 22/23 roster ahead of this season. He has stagnated as a player in just about every category even regressing in his 3-point percentage.

Maledon's waiving was simply about having to many mouths to feed at the guard position a place where the Thunder are quite crowded. Coupled with the fact that Maledon only has one year left on his deal before he becomes a UFA Presti is quite known for getting rid of players that are not long-term pieces on one-year deals off his roster ASAP.