NBA Rumors: Thunder To Put Long-Range Bomber On Trade Block

The Oklahoma City Thunder have a boatload of talent, and appear ready to make a move up the standings this season. In fact, their roster is so full of NBA-caliber players, they're in need of continuing to offload some pieces as the season goes along. 

Just this week, they unloaded Victor Oladipo, and, as a result of the trade, waived the acquired Kevin Porter Jr. 

According to Insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, seven-year veteran floor-spacer Davis Bertans could be the next to go, but it certainly won't be for nothing, as his three-point shooting is a valuable asset for the team—at least until the trade deadline.

Bertāns had been another name floating on the NBA’s trade market ahead of the Thunder’s roster decisions. Oklahoma City will still need to cut one more player after waiving Porter, just don’t expect it to be Bertāns. A career 39.8% shooter from distance, Bertāns can provide valuable shooting for the Thunder’s upstart playoff contender. And with just $5 million guaranteed for the last year of Bertāns’ pricey contract next season, he could shape into a valuable piece ahead of February’s trade deadline, when the Thunder could take back upward of $24 million in salary for the $17 million Bertāns currently represents on OKC’s books.

Bertans was acquired by OKC back on Draft Night in June, and he'll help open up some spacing for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and others to do their thing. 

The soon-to-be 31-year-old Latvian has averaged 7.8 points and 2.5 rebounds in his career, along with that 40% clip from long range. His usage in Dallas last year was down from his norm, but the Thunder should be able to get Bertans to contribute and build up his trade value. 

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