Thunder release G Abrines

The Oklahoma City Thunder announced the release of guard Alex Abrines on Saturday. Abrines has been away from the team for most of the past seven weeks to deal with an unspecified personal matter. The Thunder said the team and Abrines mutually decided on his release so he can fully focus on the personal issue.

Abrines played in just two games since Dec. 23. He played six minutes against the Orlando Magic on Jan. 29 and nine minutes against the Miami Heat on Feb. 1. Abrines wasn't at the arena for Tuesday's home game against the Orlando Magic.

"He's still battling through some things and wasn't able to be here tonight," coach Billy Donovan told reporters prior to the game against Orlando. "Honestly, we go day by day with him and continue to be supportive with him. He's around the team, we always talk and communicate." Abrines, who is from Spain, played in 174 games (16 starts) over three seasons with the Thunder. He averaged 5.3 points and shot 38.7 percent from the field.

--Field Level Media