Rudy Gay Reportedly Left Thunder Without Deal, T-Wolves 'Checked In' on Forward

Despite a strong mutual interest, free-agent forward Rudy Gay left his meeting in Oklahoma City without a contract with the Thunder.

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported the sides are still searching for a "financial path" to make a deal. Darren Wolfson of 5 Eyewitness News noted the Thunder could have competition for Gay from the Minnesota Timberwolves, who view him as a potential stretch 4 next to Karl-Anthony Towns.

The Timberwolves' financial books are clear enough that they should be able to sign Gay outright, even after agreeing to terms with Jeff Teague. The Thunder are capped out and would likely need a sign-and-trade with the Sacramento Kings to make a contract work.

Finding a workable trade would depend on Gay's salary demands. Something within the $12 million-$15 million range would be feasible but would also involve the Thunder's gutting what's left of their depth. The Kings would likely demand a package probably highlighted by Doug McDermott—a role player OKC could desperately use next season.

The Thunder want to keep their core four of Russell Westbrook, Paul George, Steven Adams and Enes Kanter intact. If adding Gay meant trading any of them (Kanter would be the odd man out), they would probably move on. 

A small forward who can stretch the floor has become a priority this offseason, especially after the George trade. Oklahoma City is set on convincing Westbrook to stay long term and wants to entice George into being more than a one-year rental. Both players can become unrestricted free agents next summer, so it's understandable that general manager Sam Presti is going all in.

Gay, given his likely salary demands and the fact he's coming off an Achilles rupture, just might not fit.