Report: Cameron Payne could return before end of month
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s backcourt depth behind Russell Westbrook and Victor Oladipo is virtually nonexistent, but it might not be that way for too much longer.
According to a report by Chris B. Haynes of ESPN on Saturday, Thunder point guard Cameron Payne, who has missed the entire season thus far with a fractured foot, is nearing a return and could be back for the team’s December 29 tilt against the Memphis Grizzlies.
ESPN Sources: Oklahoma guard Cameron Payne nearing season debut from fractured foot. Potential return date: Dec. 29 in hometown of Memphis.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) December 18, 2016
The 22-year-old Payne, Oklahoma City’s lottery selection in 2015, provides them with a true backup point guard to serve as an understudy (not to mention a dance partner) for Westbrook. He averaged 5.0 points and 1.9 assists in just 12.2 minutes per game as a rookie last year but will have an opportunity for bigger role with the second unit this season.
The 16-11 Thunder have been making due for now with rookies Semaj Christon and Alex Abrines as their backup guards. But Payne’s smooth drive-and-dish ability should give the team an adrenaline shot as they search for a more balanced offensive attack beyond just Westbrook conjuring up lightning every single night.
Image Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
