Oklahoma City Thunder: Complete 2017 offseason grades

Re-signing Nick Collison

For an NBA team to have success, there are some things that they need. A superstar is good, and role players that fit around them are important as well. Veterans at the end of the bench also play a key part, and the Thunder filled that void with Nick Collison.

Collison has played his entire 13-year career with the organization, as he was the No. 12 selection in the 2004 NBA Draft when the team was still the Seattle SuperSonics. This re-signing was more about keeping a great locker room presence around than for on-court performance.

Collison has seen his playing time decrease for six straight seasons; it would not be surprising if that number reached seven this season. We have seen teams keep veterans like Collison around for the impact they have on the younger players off the court and in practice, teaching these players how to be NBA players. For example, look at Udonis Haslem with the Miami Heat; he fills the same role Collison does.

While this signing won’t improve the Thunder on the court, it will help them. Collison is basically an extension of the coaching staff, and there is nothing wrong with that. He won’t receive much playing time, but will still have an important role with the team. Since it is only a minimum contract, this deal was a worthwhile one.

Grade: B+