Should the OKC Thunder exercise Deonte Burton team option?

The OKC Thunder are now in the process of making roster decisions. Do they exercise Deonte Burton’s team option?

After the surprisingly successful season in 2019-20, the OKC Thunder will most probably start the process of a rebuild next season. The team needs to make a decision on whether they pick up Deonte Burton‘s team option and make him a part of their future.

Burton has been with the Thunder for two seasons, playing a total of 71 games. He has averaged 2.6 points, and 1.2 rebounds in just 8.4 minutes per game. Given the roster turnover of this club in his time, Burton should have been able to carve out more playing time.

Unfortunately for the 26-year-old, he has not been able to develop into a serviceable NBA player under the direction of ex Thunder head coach Billy Donovan. This now begs the question of whether the OKC Thunder should keep Burton next season.

What should Thunder do about Deonte Burton team option?

The pros for exercising Deonte Burton team option.

When Burton does hit the court, he makes things happen. Whether it is a steal, a dunk, or a dagger three, Burton just seems to help a stagnant offense or a struggling defense. Earlier in the season when the Thunder was struggling against LeBron James, Burton was able to keep the star in check.

Burton is also due to receive just $1.6 million next season. As this franchise has $107 million in committed salary, having a player on the roster who is due so little is going to be of benefit,

The cons of exercising Deonte Burton team option.

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Burton’s shooting is just not there, Last season from the floor Burton shot 34.4 percent. From deep he was a whole lot worse, going 18.9 percent. These numbers were both down from his rookie year.

On top of this, Burton is 26 years old, so his game is not going to develop much more. This is a major factor against him as the team is looking to evaluate talent next year to see who will help them in the rebuild.

If the team has Burton on the bench, they have one less spot open to search for the next Luguentz Dort. The team can spend the $1.6 million on a younger player who is going to potentially have a greater ceiling.

Then there is the issue of team chemistry, Burton was suspended for a game and sent back to the G-League for a period of time due to a locker room issue. A young team, potentially without the strong leadership of Chris Paul, would not deal with this disharmony well.

Do the OKC Thunder exercise Deonte Burton’s team option?

The answer to this question is absolutely not. Burton has had two years to show that he is worth time on the court. His averages are low, his shooting percentages are low and he has also caused tension in the locker room.

Every player on the roster needs to add something to the team. Burton has not done this. The roster spot should go to a player such as Kevin Hervey who has shown potential and is a good teammate. Then the OKC Thunder can offer a two-way contract to another project.