The NBA has implemented many policies over the years, some of which seem like good ideas. However, some policies sound good in theory but can leave fans surprised when they are enforced.
Right now, one policy is at the center of discussion as its rules have been making headlines across NBA media. With players’ availability changing over the years, this policy was introduced to help preserve the game and ensure teams are as close to full strength as possible.
NBA Launches OKC Thunder Investigation for Violation
The NBA implemented the player participation policy, which states that if star players are healthy, they should be active. If a team rests a star without a valid reason, it can face penalties and fines.
The Utah Jazz were recently fined $100,000 for violating this policy with former All-Star Lauri Markkanen.
Markkanen has missed several games, but the fine was specifically for the March 5 game against the Washington Wizards. Shortly after the fine, he returned to action, showing how this policy can influence teams’ decisions. If the Jazz violate the rule again, the fine increases to $250,000.
Other teams are under scrutiny, including the Philadelphia 76ers, who are being investigated for the recent absences of Paul George, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey. And now, the Oklahoma City Thunder have entered the conversation, as the league is investigating their decision to rest multiple players during their March 7 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.
The NBA is investigating the Oklahoma City Thunder for potentially violating league's player participation policy, sources tell ESPN. Game under review is OKC’s March 7 win over Portland in which Thunder starting 5 (Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, Holmgren, Dort, Hartenstein) sat.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 15, 2025
In that game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, Luguentz Dort, and Isaiah Hartenstein all sat out, while Aaron Wiggins dropped 30 points and Jaylin Williams recorded his first career triple-double.
Some feel this investigation is unnecessary, as resting players occasionally used to be acceptable. Could there be a better balance that allows teams to rest their stars without violating the NBA’s policy?
The Thunder Chasing 65-Win Season
While Jalen Williams recently missed a game due to injury, the Thunder’s key players have been durable and available this season. Williams is expected to return for Oklahoma City’s game against the Detroit Pistons on March 15, which should be a strong test.
Williams is averaging 21.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists this season, while Gilgeous-Alexander, the current MVP favorite, is averaging 32.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game on 52.5% shooting from the field.
Can the Thunder reach 65 wins this season? With a 54-12 record currently, they have the momentum to do it. If they stay healthy and focused, the sky is the limit for this team.