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Looking ahead, Presti will have at least three to five roster spots to fill, depending on if Patrick Patterson and Nerlens Noel decide to opt in to their player options. If so, the Thunder owe 146.8 million in player salaries which is well over the $109 million salary cap and $132 million luxury tax.
If Abrines is able to have a breakout season, he could be worth more than a minimum deal to Oklahoma City or another team. Presti would have to make room for him on the budget, but it could be done if he proves worthy. Either way, Presti will have to get him cheap if he does re-sign.
This is all considering Abrines is able to keep true to the current trend. He’s had one signature game and will have plenty of time to prove his worth. The OKC Thunder are in desperate need of shooting and he could be a big part of this team’s success.
Billy Donovan seems to be fixed on starting Terrance Ferguson for now, but Abrines could easily take that spot until Roberson is healthy if he shoots well and is able to hold his own defensively.
As of today, he still needs to make more than two or three 3-pointers a game to see more time on the floor and potentially earn an extension.