OKC Thunder: Andre Roberson return biggest story of day one in Orlando

OKC Thunder defensive master Andre Roberson made a big impression on day one in the bubble.

As the OKC Thunder finished their quarantine and took to the hardcourt for the first full practice since the NBA suspension began enthusiasm was high. The team remained in contact virtually throughout the hiatus but as Chris Paul stated it was great to be back together and see everyone in person.

After months of being out of the public eye, Thunder fans are anxious to see the players. Social media offered updates but it’s not the same as witnessing the players in action.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander spoke of his hiatus work and Darius Bazley appeared to gain some muscle. Luguentz Dort dove into major film work while also working on his shot. Steven Adams used everything at his disposal to work on his game including the cows on his farm. Chris Paul wore copious hats making sure the Thunder stayed in contact while his main focus was his work as president of the NBPA.

Andre Roberson has huge impact on day one in Orlando

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Yet, of all the Thunder players the one everyone is most anxious to see and learn about is Andre Roberson. It’s been over two years since the defensive specialist suffered a gruesome patellar tendon injury in Detroit on January 27, 2018.

His journey back to the hardcourt has been well documented here. Each time it seemed like his return was imminent another medical setback delayed him or Dre wasn’t able to keep up with the physical intensity required for back to back practice sessions let alone ready for NBA games.

Thunder players were extremely excited about having Roberson back. As per Brandon Rahbar of Daily Thunder, Chris Paul spoke offered excitement and perhaps shed light on what OKC opponents will be thinking if Dre is anything close to his pre-injury self.

We’re giddy here in Thunder Nation at the prospect of having a player of Andre Roberson’s ilk to provide his defensive prowess. And while the feedback from day one is extremely positive until he demonstrates he can handle consecutive sessions we’ll need to temper our expectations.

Certainly, no one is taking his return for granted, least of all Roberson as his tweet told us.

https://twitter.com/FlyDre21/status/1281771355927650304

Regardless of what he brings to the court, he’s someone the Thunder can benefit from off it. Roberson has always been the embodiment of a team player, his defensive knowledge can help all the younger players and his positivity will also be an added bonus.

Let’s hope the optimism relayed from the Thunder players and coach equate to Andre Roberson finally being able to be a full-time contributor for the team.

If that happens, the Thunder become a much more difficult squad to deal with in Orlando.