OKC Thunder Trade: 3 teams that Andre Roberson could join this summer

Andre Roberson has somewhat of a mixed reputation in the NBA. He is often heralded as one of the best defenders in the league due to his an uncanny ability to contest shots, and he has also been consistently praised for his ability to lock down some of the NBA's most deadly offensive forces.

However, Roberson is also perceived as somewhat of a liability due to his lack of ball-handling skills, and his non-existent threat on the offensive end.

Despite being a regular starter since 2014, Roberson has averaged over 5.0 points per game in just one season, and during the 17/18 season, the 27-year-old shot just 22% from deep while also shooting just 32% at the free-throw line.

The power forward is also recovering from a serious left knee injury that has kept him out for more than a year.

During his time away, the likes of Terrance Ferguson have made a permanent claims to a place in the Thunder team, and with just a year left remaining on his contract, OKC may look to move him on. So, as we head towards the summer, here are three teams that could make a move for the Andre Roberson.

---

#3 Washington Wizards

The Washington Wizards are once again set to miss out on the postseason

The Washington Wizards are once again looking at a rebuild, although efforts have been derailed by John Wall's injury woes.

Back at the start of the 18/19 season, reports widely suggested the Wizards were willing to trade away both Bradley Beal and Wall as part of a rebuild, although these plans appear to have now been put on hold until Wall returns from injury in 2020.

Due to this, the team has focused on bringing in experienced players on short contracts, and Roberson would be a similar fit to Trevor Ariza, who was signed earlier this year on an expiring deal.

#2 Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks rank worst in the league for opponent points per game

While the Atlanta Hawks have only won a third of their games this season, there is no doubting that the team is heading in the right direction.

The Hawks have built an impressive array of young talent including Trae Young, John Collins and Kevin Huerter, and despite owning one of the worst records in the NBA this season, the team is ranked as one of the league's better offenses.

Nevertheless, the Hawks have allowed a league-high 118 points per game, and there is no doubting that the team needs to quickly address their defensive shortcomings.

Most notably opposing teams have targeted Young, and Roberson could potentially help to cover the rookie point guards shortcomings.

Evidently, the Hawks have focused on youth in recent years, although at just 27, Roberson could add defensive steel to the team for the next half a decade.

#1 Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled to guard their own rim this season

While the Los Angeles Lakers haven’t been particularly good on the offensive end this season, there is no doubting that the team’s poor defense has been detrimental to its disappointing season.

The Lakers defense has often leaked points during clutch moments, and league-wide, only five teams have given up more opposition points than Luke Walton’s men.

Some Lakers fans may be concerned that the addition of Roberson would stunt the teams attack, however, with LeBron James and a potential second All-Star in the form of Kyrie Irving or Anthony Davis likely to join this summer, the team should still have enough firepower.

Sending the underperforming Josh Hart to Oklahoma City may be enough to get a deal done, and Roberson’s $10 million salary would effectively replace the $9 million that Rajon Rondo has earned for the 18/19 season.

Ultimately, the Lakers are desperate to contend next season, and the addition of the defensive-focused Roberson could be vital to their chances.