The Thunder decide they need more Corey Brewer in their lives

After being bought out by the Los Angeles Lakers, Corey Brewer is in line to reunite with his college coach.

As the Los Angeles Lakers see what they have in a core group of young players, there hasn’t been room for Corey Brewer in Luke Walton’s rotation. The veteran swingman has played 54 games this season, averaging 12.9 minutes per contest, so with an expiring contract it was no surprise when a buyout came to fruition on Wednesday.

Once he clears waivers, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski has reported Brewer is expected to sign with the Oklahoma City Thunder. With Andre Roberson (leg) out for the season, the Thunder have been relying on Terrance Ferguson, Josh Huestis and Alex Abrines for wing depth. Brewer would bring experience to the mix in his 11th NBA season, but he has a deeper tie to Oklahoma City.

Thunder head coach Billy Donovan made his name during a lengthy and successful run as head coach at the University of Florida, including back-to-back national titles in 2006 and 2007. Multiple players who went on the NBA were on those title teams, including Brewer, who was then drafted seventh overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2007.

It’s hard to see another contending team claiming Brewer off waivers, and thus assuming what’s left of his $7.5 million salary for this season. So he’ll have the ability to sign with a team of his choosing, and a reunion with Donovan along with the potential to start makes the Thunder an obvious No. 1 choice.

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With a sub-par career mark from beyond the arc (28 percent), Brewer’s value will rest on his defense and ability to guard multiple positions. Walton praised him for his professionalism and mentoring of young players during this season with the Lakers. Oklahoma City is in a different place, but Brewer is sure to know his role alongside the Thunder’s version of a Big Three.