On today’s compilation of newsworthy OKC Thunder takes, we examine the ongoing mystery surrounding Alex Abrines, and reminisce on a historical January.
What is HAPPENING?
Alex Abrines has now played a total of 15 minutes for OKC Thunder since Dec. 23. He was listed inactive for 12 consecutive games, and upon being active he did not play four more consecutive games.
On Jan. 29, Abrines made his way back to the rotation playing just shy of six minutes against Orlando. He started out the month of February playing just over nine minutes as OKC beat the Heat. But, his return ended there. He didn’t play when OKC took on Boston over the weekend and did not even dress out for OKC’s rematch with Orlando.
Back at BasketballReference.com, we can see he was again listed as out for Tuesday’s game due to personal reasons.
Now, per Brett Dawson, we are seeing he has ceased participation in practice once again.
Alex Abrines did not practice today, Billy Donovan says.
— Brett Dawson (@BDawsonWrites) February 6, 2019
With no explanation, the situation is just getting bizarre. I scoured the reply section on Twitter and fans’ concerns span from serious illness, trade deadline to anxiety and other related psychological issues. It is hard not to jump to conclusions in a situation that has yet to have any light shed on the matter, but whatever the case I still hope for the best for Abrines.
OKC Thunder searching for new back-up wing?
Not helping the situation mentioned above is the rumor that OKC Thunder is searching for a back-up wing.
Posted on BleacherReport.com, Timothy Rapp reported on OKC’s interest in Alec Burks from Cleveland.
"The Oklahoma City Thunder are reportedly interested in acquiring Cleveland Cavaliers wing Alec Burks before Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, according to Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer.Per O’Connor, “The Thunder are said to have interest in Burks as they scope out the market for a backup wing, according to league sources. Oklahoma City has a $10.9 million traded-player exception to use to absorb a salary.”"
OKC Thunder has always struggled with having a consistently successful bench rotation. With Andre Roberson out indefinitely, Terrance Ferguson has occupied a starting position with OKC leaving Abrines at wing for the second team. Though Abdel Nader has done a pretty decent job filling that position, a consistent and mature back-up shooter would round out the Thunder roster as the postseason is fast approaching.
I’ve seen many varying opinions on this on social media, however. Some fans believe our team chemistry has really flourished and we shouldn’t alter the recipe. Personally, it feels like most of our success comes from the starting lineup, so when preparing for a 7-game series OKC really needs a solid back-up rotation.
The exited trade deadline day intact, but don’t be surprised if they make a move via the buyout market which projects to be just as active as the deadline was.
What are your thoughts? Feel free to drop ’em in the comment section.
OKC Thunder sets franchise record to begin 2019:
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OKC Thunder ended the month of January winning 10 of 15 games, fighting through three overtime sessions and ended the month on a six-game winning streak.
It was the best monthly stretch in the franchise history as the team averaged 120.6 per games. Individually, Paul George had an impressive stretch as well averaging 29.6 points per game over the 15-game stretch. Jordan Buckamneer reported on the historical outings for TI.
"Of course, you can’t talk about how good the Thunder have been recently without first talking about George. His near 30 points per game in the month of January is just apart of what he’s been able to do throughout the season. Among players who average over 25 minutes a game, George is also fourth in defensive rating (101.4), 12th in Player Impact Estimate (16.7) and 20th in usage rating (28.2).Regardless of the loss, the Thunder still won seven consecutive before Sunday. They’re on pace to finish high in the West and make another deep playoff run with George making a case for MVP."
Stay tuned with Thunderous Intentions as the team continues to deliver exciting content about your favorite team and players.