What It Means:

Despite the encouraging words, Donovan won't commit to Oladipo's status for Tuesday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers until he goes through the morning shootaround. Expect him to wind up being a game-time decision for what could be a potential seventh straight absence. Oladipo's return to the lineup will mean less opportunity for Alex Abrines (eye) and Doug McDermott.

Oladipo is averaging 16.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.9 3-pointers on a career-best 44.6 percent shooting from the field. His -0.3 nERD is tied for 230th in the NBA and ranks ninth on the Thunder.