I think Adams is what really kills them. If they could split that money into 3 good role players that fit well, you could see them doing something in the future. I don't think he is moveable with that contract though.
From a salary standpoint, for sure, but I think you’ll find that when the Thunder actually involve Adams (not throw Russ the ball so he can jack up garbage) they have much higher win percentage.
With Adams I think it’s purely fit, he may be worth his $25mil paycheck to another team elsewhere in the league.
I think moving Russ is the only way to get them past round 1.
He is like an anchor, not a defensive anchor, but the one that drags you down into the deep.
There could be a GM who is blind enough to want him.
Adams would be hard or not lucrative enough to move him now IMO. The center position has many alternatives in this market.
EDIT:
They aren't ready to do that as the organization.
Its like Bulls trading Jimmy, will take years to reach PO, especially in the west. Plus they probably had some type of agreement with PG to remain competitive.