Deonte Burton's strong play is a good problem to have if you’re Thunder general manager Sam Presti.
Burton wasn’t expected to be a part of the Thunder’s rotation, but a combination of roster attrition (Andre Roberson’s rehab setbacks, Alex Abrines being waived), an impressive summer league and development in the G League this season has Burton, a two-way player who earned midseason Western Conference All-NBA G League Team honors, on the cusp of a roster spot.
In his first two-month stint with the Thunder, Burton was inconsistent defensively and finishing at the rim. In 37 minutes between two wins against Houston and Portland, however, Burton has shown growth.