Former Kentucky Wildcat Daniel Orton Finalizes Deal With Oklahoma City Thunder

Earlier this summer I had reported that contract discussions had started between former Kentucky Wildcat one and done player Daniel Orton and the defending Western Conference Champs, the Oklahoma City Thunder.  At that time, contract talks had just started and it was stated from both sides that their was interest to continue those contract discussions.  Well, now it is finally finalized.  Earlier this week, the Oklahoma City Thunder signed Daniel Orton to what is called a non-guaranteed contract.  This means that there is still  a chance that Daniel Orton does not have a guaranteed spot on the opening night roster for the Oklahoma City Thunder.  The Thunder have 14 out of 15 players guaranteed for the 2012-2013 opening night roster, so Orton will have to battle for the final spot on the team against Hollis Thompson, who also has a non-guaranteed contract for the 2012-2013 season.  If Daniel Orton fails to make the final roster for Oklahoma City, then he will most likely land in the D-League, playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder’s D-League team, the Tulsa 66ers.  Orton averaged 2.8 points and 2.4 rebounds per game last season with the Orlando Magic, but he was not resigned when his rookie contract expired at the end of the season.  Orton will be trying for a spot for his hometown team as he attended Bishop McGuinness High School in Oklahoma City.  Hopefully Daniel Orton can make the opening day roster and get a chance to get some playing time in front of a hometown crowd.

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