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
