In addition to the All-Star Game, the Thunder’s second year guard, Cason Wallace, will take part in the Rising Stars Challenge. This will be Wallace’s second appearance as a Rising Star, and another sign that he’s one of the brightest young players in the league.

Considering all that, it shouldn't be a shocker to see the Thunder make minimal moves at the NBA trade deadline. Sam Presti made a handful of roster changes, but those were on the margins. OKC will ride out with the squad that's led it to its cushy first-place lead.

As the NBA trade deadline nears, the Oklahoma City Thunder should focus on touching up the corners — if that. No need to fundamentally change the painting. The Thunder have been the league's best team this season.

With Theis gone, the Thunder now have an open roster spot. They could use it to convert Ajay Mitchell to a standard deal. The two-way rookie has played well despite toe surgery likely knocking him out for the rest of the regular season. No need to risk exposing him to restricted free agency.