Andre Roberson has been promoted to the starting lineup.
Whether it ends up being just a one-time event will soon be determined.
After two impressive performances in the Thunder’s first two exhibition contests, the day after head coach Billy Donovan said that he believes Roberson can “do anything,” the head coach has tapped the swingman to enter the starting lineup when the Thunder play their third and final Orlando exhibition contest against the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night.
Chris Paul and Terrance Ferguson will each miss the contest. Paul is resting while Ferguson will be nursing a leg contusion.
The absence of those two backcourt mainstays opened the door for Roberson to start, but considering what he’s shown and Donovan’s recent comments on the guard, it’s worth mentioning.
Despite not having played in more than 900 days, Roberson has shown that his defensive instincts and presence are still capable of making a difference for the Thunder.
His two huge three-point shots helped the team erase a 24-point deficit against the Sixers, and if Donovan’s team is lucky, could indicate improved offensive abilities that would go a long way toward helping him provide value on both sides of the ball.
With Paul and Ferguson each missing the contest, Roberson will probably see his minutes extended after playing 12 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively, in the Thunder’s first two exhibition games.
Tuesday’s opportunity — although occurring in a game that doesn’t count in the standings — could fortify his argument for being handed some critical minutes when the games begin counting for something later this week.
