Thunderous Intentions
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Andre Roberson is vital to future success of the Thunder

By Gideon Lim

Oct 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Andre Roberson (21) reaches for a rebound against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Oklahoma City Thunder won 103-97. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Andre Roberson (21) reaches for a rebound against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Oklahoma City Thunder won 103-97. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; OKC Thunder forward Andre Roberson (21) warms up before playing against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; OKC Thunder forward Andre Roberson (21) warms up before playing against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

Conclusion

Andre Roberson’s season deserves to be rated highly. In terms of the tangibles, it is unquestionable that he stepped up his game. Sure, his shooting sputtered out over the course of the season. Thunder fans will definitely remember the missed free throws in Game 4 against the Rockets in the playoffs. Had he managed to sink those freebies, the Thunder might possibly have got another shot at extending the series.

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But it is tough to argue that his shooting alone changed the course of the season for the Thunder. Conversely, the way Roberson ramped his defense up is probably what helped the Thunder achieve the clutch rating they had. It was for this reason that many blogs (TI was ahead of the curve) had Roberson pegged as the Thunder’s non-Westbrook MVP.

Still, what is important when evaluating Roberson’s season is to do so in light of these story lines. Looking at his transformation into defensive captain and his endeavor to innovate ways to stay relevant on offense despite poor shooting should enhance his on court contributions. The picture becomes complete when you understand that all these, plus his locker room worth, was achieved under the personal slight from not getting his contract extended.

Because of that, re-signing Andre Roberson must be #1 on Sam Presti’s to-do list this offseason.

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