The Oklahoma City Thunder are having an incredible season so far. They are in the Western Conference Finals, two wins away from reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since the 2011-2012 season, when they lost to the Miami Heat in five games.
They are currently up 2-1 over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Their success has come from a great roster, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was recently named league MVP. However, with the NBA Draft just a month away, it is never too early to start thinking about their future. In the draft, barring trades, the Thunder currently have picks 15, 24, and 44.
Who Is Maxime Raynaud?
Maxime Raynaud is a French 7’1, 235-pound center who spent all four seasons with Stanford. Raynaud used to be teammates with Spurs star Victor Wembanyama.
7’1”, Máxime Raynaud is a highly skilled force how can you not love his triple threat, smooth jumper, and polished in-between game.
He shows flashes of Jokic and Porzingis imo — a fantastic blend of size, skill, and a complete offensive toolkit.
pic.twitter.com/QQP7qPsIIe— NetsKingdom 👑🗽 (@NetsKingdomAJ) May 22, 2025
“The Thunder have a deep, talented roster, making it unlikely they’ll use both of their picks on players expected to contribute immediately. That’s why Maxime Raynaud could be an ideal selection. After a standout showing at the NBA draft combine, Raynaud has emerged as a potential riser on draft boards.”
“The 7’1”, center is coming off a breakout senior season at Stanford, where he quietly put together one of the most efficient and productive years in college basketball. A true back-to-the-basket big, Raynaud has a soft touch around the rim, polished footwork, and the ability to finish with either hand.” In his breakout season, he averaged 20.2 points, 10.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.4 blocks.
The 2024-2025 All-ACC big man also shot 46.7% from the field and 34.7% from the charity stripe.
“Raynaud also brings stretch potential with a solid mid-range shot and emerging range from beyond the arc. A capable passer and dependable rebounder on both ends, Raynaud doesn’t need heavy usage to make an impact, which could make him a strong fit for OKC’s system.”
However, there are some knocks to his game, including his athleticism. That was evident in college, and will be an even bigger issue in the NBA, going up against faster, better, stronger, and better competition. However, at 22 years old, Raynaud is still young and will have plenty of time to learn and develop at the next level.
“Though not the most athletic big, Raynaud’s game is mature and NBA-ready. He’s a smart, skilled big man who could thrive in a complementary role and gradually grow into more.”
Best Fit for Raynaud?
Two teams that would be best suited for Raynaud are the Thunder and the Toronto Raptors.
At 24, do not be surprised if the Thunder take Raynaud. Raynaud on the Thunder would have a similar impact to the current center, Isaiah Hartenstein.
Hartenstein was the perfect acquisition for the Thunder as he is a 7’0″, 255-pound center who can give you a double-double with points and rebounds. More importantly, he offers you help on the defensive end in the paint and rebounding department, playing alongside Chet Holmgren, who is about 40 pounds lighter.
Hartenstein is in the first season of his three-year, $87 million dollar contract. As good as he is, he may become a trade target due to financial reasons as Gilgeous-Alexander is due to for a super-max deal after winning MVP.
Or, if they still keep Hartenstein and select Raynaud, Hartenstein, with a similar skillset and size, would be the perfect person to develop and help Raynaud.
Another team that could select Raynaud, especially if he falls out of the first round, is the Raptors. At pick 39, the Raptors could desperately use a backup center or even a backup with starter upside to replace Jakob Poeltl.
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With four seasons of collegiate basketball, and more recently averaging a 20-point and 10-rebound double-double, Raynaud will instantly become a day one impactful player at the NBA level, regardless of his minutes.
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