Oklahoma City Thunder: Remember Andre Roberson? He’s back (Maybe)

Andre Roberson fully participated in practice for the Oklahoma City Thunder and could make his long-awaited return in the NBA’s restart.

After not playing in a game for over two years now, most fans might have forgotten about Andre Roberson. However, he is still on the roster for the Oklahoma City Thunder, and could be making a return to the court soon after his practice with the team on Friday showed promising signs.

Via ESPN: 

"“He looked really, really good in terms of the way he was moving,” coach Billy Donovan said. “It was great to see him out there. I was really happy for him. But like we’ve talked about in the past, we’ll see how he can continue to build up and develop here over the next week, but he was out there today and he participated in everything.”"

Donovan’s word displayed optimism, but also proper caution. For a player that has missed over two years due to injury, the team would love to get him back on the court, but also need not to rush things. When last seen healthy, Roberson was a stellar force on the defensive end, helping anchor the team as one of the best defenders in the league.

Roberson’s teammate, Chris Paul, detailed his thoughts on the matter, and how he was ecstatic to see the guard back on the court.

"“For a guy to go through all the things that he’s been through, and me to get back to Oklahoma during the [hiatus] and see he was out on the court working, and to actually play, I’m so happy for him. He’s had some of the toughest times that people wouldn’t even know. Unbelievably happy to see him out there playing and practicing.”"

Although his career stats of 4.6 points and 4.0 rebounds will signify to most that Roberson is not a high-impact player, Paul will tell them otherwise. The point guard detailed how he used to loathe playing against Roberson because it was such a nightmarish matchup for him whenever they faced off.

With the two now on the same side, things could get interesting if Roberson indeed suits up for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA’s resumption.

Currently slated as the Western Conference’s 5-seed with a 40-24 record, the Thunder surprised everyone, as ESPN’s experts predicted before the season that they would finish in the 13-seed by season’s end.

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If Roberson indeed makes his triumphant return this season, it will only increase the Thunder’s dark horse status. Lead by the veteran Chris Paul, with surrounding pieces such as the ascending Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, Dennis Schroder, and others, this team has several unique pieces that could make some noise in the postseason. Potentially adding a top-tier defender when last seen would be a significant addition, and make them a team that no opponent wants to face.

Still, as previously stated, Oklahoma City needs to proceed with caution in this situation. If Roberson checks all of the boxes and the organization believes he is ready, bringing him back would be a noteworthy boost.

While some might brush off any speculation that the team might bring Roberson back this season because it would not be worth it, the Thunder brought him on the trip for a reason. With the 28-year-old joining the team in Orlando, there certainly have been discussions if he is in game-shape after such a long layoff.

Although nothing is official yet, keep an eye on Andre Roberson and the Oklahoma City Thunder as the season nears its restart in the coming weeks.