Roberson out for the Opener vs. Utah

Andre Roberson won't be in the Thunder lineup tonight when they tip-off in Salt Lake City. Per a team spokesperson, Roberson is returning to "play management." If you're wondering what that means, there is no injury to report. However, he is still working to get back on the court. When asked if this part of rehab was physical the answer to that question was "yes."

Andre Roberson (return to play management) is out tonight for the Thunder’s season opener at Utah, per Billy Donovan.
— Maddie Lee (@maddie_m_lee) October 23, 2019

Billy Donovan told the media this week that Roberson was able to take part in 17 minutes of a scrimmage, had responded well to contact, and played with no restrictions. There is even a video of Roberson doing some one on one work with Steven Adams.

To this point, general manager Sam Presti, head coach Billy Donovan and Andre Roberson himself are all being vague with Roberson's status. If this is Roberson's decision not to play because he doesn't fully trust his body (though the team may have cleared him), that information won't see the light of day while Roberson is still with the team. The Thunder will never put Roberson in a position where he comes off as the bad guy. Look at how they handled the Alex Abrines situation. Abrines disappeared from the Thunder rotation midway through last season with very little explanation other than "he would play when he was ready, and the team supported him." Since then, Abrines has been open about his mental health struggles.

A lot more post-practice movement from Andre Roberson than last week. Thunder assistants working with Roberson on full-court defense/change of direction/fitness. Billy Donovan said Roberson did more in practice today. pic.twitter.com/KWHb3PyUVi
— Erik Horne (@ErikkHorne) October 18, 2019

While it frustrates fans, the Thunder is building a reputation as one of the most player-friendly organizations in the NBA. Considering how hard it is for small market teams to attract free agents, you need to protect the players you have even if it means not giving the whole story.

Between Terrance Ferguson, Hamidou Diallo, Darius Bazley, Deonte Burton, and Abdel Nader, there are more than enough combo players to fill Roberson's role.

Are you a #Thunder fan who uses Dish or Sling? Better read this. (And if you know someone who is a Thunder fan with one of those services -- your granny, your dad, a good friend -- be a pal and share this.) https://t.co/aCAdAQ3k2O
— Jenni Carlson (@JenniCarlson_OK) October 23, 2019

•If you are a sling or dish subscriber, you won't be able to watch the Thunder and Utah tonight. Sinclar Broadcasting Group and Dish Networks have yet to agree on the distribution of local fox regional channels.

•Best guess at the starting five for tonight

•PG Chris Paul

•SG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

•SF Terrance Ferguson

•PF Danilo Gallinari

•C Steven Adams