Five takeaways from the Thunder’s nail-biting win against Melbourne United
By Tony Heim
Keep Andre Roberson away from the perimeter
Before I get to the downside of Roberson’s night I have to praise the man. The Second Team All-NBA forward showcased why Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry called him “the best glue guy in the league.” He was everywhere on the court, finishing with two steals, two blocks three assists and nine rebounds.
Now to the “downside” of today’s presentation. Roberson is technically a guard, but he has the offensive skills of a big man. He can’t shoot, but he’s a great rebounder and cutter. Hence why Billy Donovan needs to start using Roberson like a big man. In fact, our writer Gideon Lim already gave him a blueprint over the offseason.
MUST READ: Andre Roberson can be an offensive weapon
Roberson has not improved his shot since last season. He’s 0-5 from deep to start the preseason, and that includes the infamous wide-open airball against Houston. It’s a different story from two-point range though; Roberson is 4-5. With Paul George and Carmelo Anthony in the fold Roberson has more opportunities to get easy buckets around the rim, something he’s actually good at. Remember how fun these used to be?
The fifth year guard does nothing positive for the Thunder offense when he’s on the perimeter. Whether Billy Donovan runs him in the pick & roll a la 2016 Western Conference Finals or sends him on near-constant runs to the basket, Donovan has to figure out how to turn Roberson’s few offensive skills into a positive for the team.
Andre can be effective in the right spots. Billy Donovan just has to slightly modify his offense to put Roberson in those positions.