Breaking down reformulated OKC Thunder roster following trio of trades
G-Leaguer Promotion?
Of all the youngsters who played in Vegas on the OKC Thunder Summer League squad the one which I was hoping would showcase growth was Deonte Burton.
Although his numbers didn’t reflect my desires there were some positive takeaways. First of all, Burton has definitely put in some time to get his body in shape as his newly trimmed down physique showcased.
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The hope was we’d see palpable growth in Burton’s game in Summer League. But his overall production wasn’t necessarily the definitive example of what will translate onto the varsity court. For starters, we have no idea if Burton was asked to be more of a playmaker and to feed the youngsters so the team could ascertain what the other youngsters can do. In a rebuild mode that would make a ton of sense.
His improvements in Vegas specifically on the glass (4.5), playmaking (2.3 assists) and via steals (1.30) speak to Burton seizing a leadership role on the SL squad and should offer optimism for what he can do with the varsity squad this season off the bench.
Plus, for as much as Burton allowed the youngsters to showcase their talents when push came to shove it was Burton who made the play at the game end to beat the Blazers.