OKC Thunder Rumors: Andre Roberson nearing a return, could still feature for Oklahoma City this season

What's the story?

Andre Roberson has now been out of action for more than a year due to a ruptured left patellar tendon. Roberson was initially expected to return in early January, however, the 27-year-old remains on the sidelines, and throughout his rehab, the Thunder organization has been very slow releasing updates on Roberson's condition.

Nevertheless, Maddie Lee of NewsOK is reporting that Roberson has quietly made significant progress over the last few weeks, and it is believed that the small forward could still return ahead of the final weeks of the season:

Andre Roberson sifted along the 3-point line, launching shots after shootaround Tuesday. He wore a black sleeve over his left leg, compressing the knee that he’d had multiple operations on since rupturing his patellar tendon 13 months ago. Thunder coach Billy Donovan reiterated Tuesday that he does not have a timetable for Roberson’s return, but the team is optimistic that he could be able to return at some point this season.

In case you didn't know...

Roberson has spent his entire NBA career with the Thunder after the organization acquired him from the Minnesota Timberwolves during draft night of 2013. It took Roberson less than a year to break into OKC's starting five, and his defensive ability earned him a place in the 2017 NBA All-Defensive Second Team.

The heart of the matter

The Thunder missed Roberson immensely during the 17/18 season, although during the current campaign, 20-year-old Terrance Ferguson has stepped up in his absence. Due to this, OKC have remained in the hunt for home-court playoff advantage, and it is now questionable whether Roberson will return to the starting lineup upon his return.

What's next?

The Thunder will be looking to end their recent two-game slide as they take on the Philadelphia 76ers tonight.