The Oklahoma City Thunder have emerged as the best front office in major U.S. sports, according to a recent survey. Conducted by The Athletic, the poll asked executives and coaches from the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL to rank front offices. The Thunder, led by General Manager Sam Presti, finished first.
Thunder Edge Dodgers, Ravens To Top Exclusive Front Office List
Presti’s Vision Drives Thunder to the Top
The Thunder received 354 points and 29 first-place votes, outpacing the competition. Presti’s strategic leadership since 2007 has built a reputation for adaptability and foresight.
His 2019 trade with the Los Angeles Clippers stands out. The deal secured Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a massive haul of draft picks. Presti’s moves have kept the Thunder competitive while positioning them for sustained future success.
The Thunder now hold 13 first-round and 17 second-round picks through 2030. Presti’s team has also adapted well to the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement. Rival executives praise their flexibility and long-term planning.
Dodgers Earn Second Place with Consistency
The Los Angeles Dodgers, led by Andrew Friedman, ranked second with 284 points and 19 first-place votes. Since Friedman joined in 2014, the Dodgers have consistently contended for titles.
Under his leadership, the Dodgers have won two World Series championships and maintained disciplined roster management. The team’s ability to combine star power with internal development sets them apart.
Key acquisitions like Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani reflect Friedman’s balanced approach. Despite a high payroll, the Dodgers remain committed to long-term success.
Ravens Shine with Smart Moves
The Baltimore Ravens claimed third place, earning 259 points and 15 first-place votes. General Manager Eric DeCosta has built a model of consistency.
The Ravens excel in trades and the NFL Draft. Acquiring linebacker Roquan Smith midseason solidified their defense. DeCosta’s ability to retain and develop talent has kept the Ravens competitive in a tough AFC. The team also remains a leader in scouting and analytics, ensuring sustained success.
Rays and Stars Show Versatility
The Tampa Bay Rays ranked fourth, proving innovation can overcome budget limitations. Their player development system continues to churn out talent, keeping the team competitive.
The Dallas Stars, led by Jim Nill, round out the top five. The Stars’ success stems from a strong developmental pipeline and respectful organizational culture. Nill’s leadership has established a foundation for long-term growth in the NHL.
Thunder’s Recognition Highlights Key Traits
The survey underscores what makes a front office elite. Long-term vision, adaptability, and collaboration are essential traits. The Thunder’s ability to stay ahead of league trends while building for the future sets them apart.
Their top ranking validates Presti’s methodical approach to roster construction and asset management. Other top-ranked teams, including the Dodgers and Ravens, share similar traits. Success is never accidental—it requires consistent effort and strategic planning.
Thunder Receive Recognition as Best Front Office in Sports
The Oklahoma City Thunder have proven that patience and strategy can yield extraordinary results. Their top ranking reflects Presti’s ability to balance short-term competitiveness with long-term vision. As the Thunder continue to build, their recognition as the top front office serves as a benchmark for excellence in sports management.
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