The Oklahoma City Thunder are entering training camp with a good group of point guards. However, one of them might be leaving soon -- Semaj Christon. ESPN reported that "there is a good chance" the Thunder are bidding farewell to Christon because he does not have full salary protection. Despite the potential release, the 24-year-old seems unfazed as suggested by a report from The Oklahoman.
Christon entered the NBA as the 55th overall pick of the Miami Heat in 2014. The Heat traded his rights to the Charlotte Hornets, who sent them to the Thunder. In the 2016-17 season, he was the backup of franchise star Russell Westbrook. He averaged 2.9 points, 1.4 rebounds, and two assists per game. Late in the regular season and during the playoffs, he shared second-stringer duties with Norris Cole.
Diminished role
If Christon is still on Oklahoma City's roster on October 15, his salary will be fully guaranteed, though his role with the squad is expected to be far different from the one he had last season.
In July, the Thunder signed veteran Raymond Felton who is projected to be the new second-stringer at the point guard position. The arrival of the 33-year-old means less playing time for Christon.
Christon is not worried about the addition of Felton. In The Oklahoman's report, it appears that he is even looking forward to it since he can learn from the experienced playmaker. What he is thinking of are the possible contributions of Felton to Oklahoma City.
Brandon Jennings praises Westbrook
Speaking of point guards in Oklahoma City, Westbrook got mentioned recently on Twitter by fellow veteran playmaker, Brandon Jennings. According to Jennings, Westbrook "got better this summer." Thunder fans reacted positively to the tweet.
It is uncertain how Jennings knew about the progress of the 28-year-old reigning MVP. Maybe they had the chance to work out or play together this offseason, similar to what other NBA players are doing.
Jennings' statement is good news for the Oklahoma City Thunder and their supporters. It means that Westbrook is committed to continuing to improve his game. Last season, Westbrook had the best year of his career so far. He became the second player in the history of the NBA to average a triple-double in a season. He carried the team to the playoffs sans Kevin Durant. Sadly, the post-season run ended quickly as the Houston Rockets eliminated them in five games.