Ryan Lambert, a significant figure in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s organization, is moving on to a new opportunity with the Charlotte Hornets. According to Mike Scotto of HoopsHype, Lambert will be transitioning from OKC’s scouting team to take on the role of Director of Amateur Scouting for the Hornets.
League sources informed HoopsHype that the Charlotte Hornets are bringing on Ryan Lambert as their new Director of Amateur Scouting. Lambert previously contributed to the Oklahoma City Thunder’s scouting efforts.
Lambert began his tenure with OKC in 2012, starting as an assistant in basketball operations. After two seasons in that role, he was promoted by general manager Sam Presti to the position of college scout.
In 2020, Lambert’s career took a significant step forward when he was promoted to Senior Amateur Scout. During his time in this role, the Thunder successfully drafted key players such as Josh Giddey and Aaron Wiggins in 2021, as well as Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and Jaylin Williams in 2022.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have played a significant role in shaping Charlotte’s roster with players who hold value in the NBA but may not align with OKC’s accelerated timeline. From trading Tre Mann, Vasilije Micic, and Davis Bertans to Charlotte for Gordon Hayward at the 2023-24 trade deadline, to Aleksej Pokusevski signing with Charlotte after being waived by OKC, and more recently, the addition of Keyontae Johnson, Charlotte has become a destination where former Thunder players with limited exposure can truly shine.
Given the rapid rebuild of the Oklahoma City Thunder, it’s evident that Lambert was a key asset in their scouting department. While his departure will undoubtedly be a significant loss for the now championship-contending Thunder, it marks a major acquisition for the Hornets.
