Deonte

Burton

With P.J. Dozier’s second 10-day contract expiring, the Kings have turned to their G League affiliate for his replacement. Burton has appeared in 14 games for the Stockton Kings, averaging 12.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.9 blocks, and 1.4 3-pointers in 38.2 minutes. He’s shooting 54.5% from the field and 84.7% from the foul line.

The Thunder have not ruled out a return but likely want to see what is on the open market first. Burton appeared in 39 games last season but averaged just 9.1 minutes.

He sat out on Friday and isn’t going to be much of a factor now that Lu Dort is starting and playing well for the Thunder. Burton could get some run with Terrance Ferguson dealing with a stiff back, but we don’t expect him to make a fantasy impact anytime soon.

With Lu Dort playing well, the Thunder won’t need Burton for tonight’s matchup.

Burton received some playing time due to the absences of Terrance Ferguson (personal) and Abdel Nader (ankle), and that will likely remain the case for as long as those two are out. But it isn’t enough to make him a player worth adding in any fantasy league.

Burton was suspended for Friday’s game against the Wolves due to conduct detrimental to the team after an altercation in the locker room. He played in Saturday’s G League game and could potentially be recalled before the Thunder play again on Sunday night. He could see a few minutes with Terrance Ferguson (hip) and Hamidou Diallo (elbow) both out, but he’ll be hard to trust in any fantasy format.

It’s bad timing for Burton because he likely would’ve seen minutes with Hamidou Diallo (elbow) and Terrance Ferguson (hip) not playing tonight. With him out, that could mean more minutes fro Abdel Nader while Darius Bazley could play more, too.

Burton’s two-way contract will be converted to a regular contract, allowing him to stay with OKC for the duration of the season. He’s not a fantasy asset right now but is a guy to monitor throughout the offseason.

After his career-high 18 points on Monday, the Thunder didn’t go with as many small-ball lineups to drop Burton’s playing time. The undrafted Iowa State rookie likely won’t be in the rotation after the break when the Thunder get healthy again.

After playing a total of 15 minutes in the last three games, Burton played a season-high 26 on Monday and made the most of his opportunity. With Dennis Schoder out, Burton, Raymond Felton and Abdel Nader all saw extended minutes Monday night. Burton isn’t a viable fantasy option, but his performance against the Trail Blazers is one that he’s unlikely to ever forget.