The Oklahoma City Thunder are no longer signing free agent Ochai Agbaji as the franchise takes a step back to reevaluate its open roster spot after losing Chet Holmgren for two-plus months, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.
Oklahoma City had agreed Friday to sign Agbaji to fill its open roster spot after major injuries to guard Cason Wallace and forward Jalen Williams, but then the Thunder decided to reconsider the options following the determination that Holmgren would also be out for an extended period.
Agbaji's health was not a concern or factor in the decision, sources said.
Agbaji, the No. 14 pick in the 2022 draft, has averaged 7.2 points and 2.7 rebounds in 263 games, including 108 starts. Agbaji, 26, was waived by the New York Knicks in final roster cuts this month. He has played for three NBA teams in his four years, splitting last season with the Toronto Raptors and Brooklyn Nets. Williams (fractured fibula, dislocated left ankle) and Wallace (torn labrum in left shoulder) both suffered injuries during Sunday's win over the LA Clippers that required surgery. Their recoveries will both take several months, but the Thunder have not ruled either player out for the season.
OKC expects Holmgren to return in eight to 10 weeks after undergoing biological treatment Friday to address a small patellar tendon tear.