Reviewing Alex Abrines' rookie season with the OKC Thunder

Reviewing Alex Abrines’ rookie season with the Thunder

By Tony Heim | Jun 16, 2017

Apr 25, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Abrines (8) and guard Russell Westbrook (0) dribbles against the Houston Rockets in game five of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

1 of 5

Mar 3, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; OKC Thunder guard Alex Abrines (8) against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Despite inconsistent playing time to start the season, Alex Abrines was a key bench player for the OKC Thunder by the playoffs.

2016 marked the year that would forever change the Oklahoma City Thunder – Alex Abrines signed a 3 year, $17 million deal.

So maybe I exaggerated just a tad. Abrines may end up being a career bench player, but for a team devoid of shooting, the Spaniard Sniper is an angel. His 38.1% from deep was a full 2% higher than any other Thunder player shooting 3 or more a game; still Abrines only averaged 15 minutes a game.

The 23-year old may be a great shooter, but his defense prohibits him from seeing more time on the court. If he can simply become an average defender the Thunder could have a JJ Reddick-type player on their hands. That’s a big “if” though.

Let’s take a bigger look at Abrines’ first season in the NBA and figure out if the Thunder have a legitimate shooting prospect on their hands.

Home/Thunder News