NBA Rumors: Russell Westbrook seems happy in OKC for now, but that could quickly change
Russell Westbrook, in a somewhat surprising fashion to some, has really embraced being a one-man band during this season with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
After Kevin Durant left OKC last summer, Westbrook could’ve taken the easy way out. He could’ve demanded a trade or simply made it known that he had no interest in re-signing after this season, which would’ve likely prompted the Thunder in moving him.
In the end, Westbrook did otherwise. He signed a small extension after Durant left, signaling that he was committed – for a couple more years, at least – to the OKC Thunder.
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However, after the 2017-18 season, Westbrook has an early termination option (opt out) which would open the door for him to hit free agency. Although, the Thunder could extend his contract again this summer, if he agrees.
Key: if he agrees.
That’s where the true test in Westbrook’s “loyalty” to OKC really begins.
There’s no doubt that Westbrook loves OKC, and embraces everything about it. However, you can see that he wants to win too – there’s no question about that either. Problem is, with little-to-no flexibility when it comes to cap space, winning could prove to be extremely difficult to guarantee in OKC.
Nevertheless, for the time being at least, Westbrook seems content in OKC.
"[via ESPN]“That’s something, like I said, I haven’t thought about anything, obviously,” Westbrook said. “Everybody knows that I like Oklahoma City and I love being here and I love everybody here. But I haven’t even thought about that. Obviously, Oklahoma City is a place that I want to be.”"
Again the key here is going to be whether or not he signs long-term with OKC this summer. Because if he doesn’t, it could place the Thunder in another interesting circumstance.
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Would OKC gamble on another big star? After watching Durant walk in free agency last summer, would they dare take the chance that it happens again with Westbrook?