The OKC Thunder have recalled Deonte Burton from the OKC Blue.
After playing one game in the G-League for the OKC Blue, the OKC Thunder have recalled Deonte Burton from the G-League. Burton started for the Blue against the Westchester Knicks and had a solid, game.
Burton has played in five games for the OKC Thunder averaging 3.8 points and 1.4 rebounds per game.
Unfortunately, the most playing time that Burton has had was in the blowout loss to the Indiana Pacers. He played 18 minutes, unfortunately when the game was all but over. One of the games Burton only played three seconds.
#WeAreThunder: Deonte Burton Recalled From Oklahoma City Blue https://t.co/G3efb2NrLt
— Mervsports (@mervsports78) November 18, 2019
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Burton was assigned to the G-League, presumably to get a decent run in a competitive game. He started the game and played 28 minutes. Burton scored 16 points on 6 of 15 shooting. He also had six rebounds and three assists but was not as effective as I would have liked.
The fact that Burton was recalled so quickly tells me that the OKC Thunder is concerned about the knee issue of Hamidou Diallo. The second-year shooting guard has been dynamic off the bench with his defense and sheer attack on the rim.
Last game Abdel Nader was the first player off the bench in Diallo’s place. Unfortunately, Nader’s play has been less than stellar this year, I actually think that he would benefit from some time in the G-League to get his confidence back.
Hopefully, this means that coach Billy Donovan is looking to play Burton more in Diallo’s absence. Our site expert, Tamberlyn Richardson, has been calling for more playing time for Burton and this could be a good chance to establish himself in the rotation.
Burton always makes things happen, whether it is a deflection on defense or a cut on offense, he is always moving. There were a number of games last season where he helped get the OKC Thunder back into a contest.
One thing is for sure, more playing time for Burton is not a bad thing.