Report: Markieff Morris Agrees to Sign with Thunder
Per Shams Charania of The Athletic, free agent forward Markieff Morris has agreed to sign with the Oklahoma City Thunder for the remainder of the 2018-19 season. Morris reportedly drew interest from a number of contenders after hitting the buyout market last week — including the Rockets, Raptors, “and several others.” However, he ultimately decided to join Russell Westbrook and Paul George in Oklahoma City, solidifying a second unit in need of help.
The 29-year-old Morris was traded from Washington to New Orleans at last week’s trade deadline, and was then bought out by the Pelicans — freeing him up for a move to the Sooner state. He missed 19 consecutive games for the Wizards due to a neck injury, but was recently cleared to return to action — which he will presumably do after the All-Star break. While it’s yet to be determined what his exact role will be, Morris figures to slide into the backup power forward position currently held by Patrick Patterson.
Morris appeared in 34 games for the Wizards this season, posting a stat line of 11.5 points, and 5.1 rebounds on 43.6 percent shooting (33.3% 3P). While he’s not a prolific shooter, he brings a grittiness currently lacking in the second unit. His versatility also opens up a new world of small ball possibilities — potentially giving OKC their own version of a “death lineup.”
More details to come as they’re made available.
