The lost season: What’s next for OKC Thunder defensive master Andre Roberson?

OKC Thunder wing Andre Roberson missed 43 games a season ago and the entirety of 2018-19. Therefore, in order to predict his future value, reflection on his past is essential.

The career of a professional athlete is often short-lived. The likes of a Dirk Nowitzki, Kobe Bryant, and Tom Brady, are few and far between. Therefore, if any individual plays a full season at the highest level of their selected sport they should be considered a success. Unfortunately, that is not how society observes situations, more instances than not.

Hence, when an athlete, such as OKC Thunder guard Andre Roberson losses an entire season due to injury, it can be frustrating and devastating. Some players return the following season, without missing a beat. While others are never the same player they once were, Thunder Nation is hoping Dre falls into the former category. Until Roberson ultimately plays a fair amount of contests, it’s uncertain which path he will take.

Staying Involved

When a player goes down with an injury there are instances where they disengage and no longer interact with their franchise or teammates. That did not transpire with Dre. The Thunder maintained a close working relationship with Roberson as he rehabbed close to the team.

Once he was cleared for travel he did. On multiple occasions, he participated in Oklahoma City’s closed shootaround, typically during home games, but he also participated during a few road contests as well. Last but not the least, before each home contest, the team engages in final team prayer, before taking the hardwood, Roberson was a mainstay in this Thunder staple, typically sporting warm-ups.

Another way the Thunder displayed loyalty, was signing Dre’s younger brother Anthony Roberson to a deal with G-League affiliate the OKC Blue. Ant Roberson appeared in 11 games for the Blue, while averaging 9.4 minutes, scoring 1.27 points, on 33.3 percent from the floor, and grabbing 1.91 rebounds per contest.