Russell Westbrook is one of the best players in the NBA, and he is coming off an incredible MVP year. He took the Oklahoma City Thunder to the playoffs even though their team was made mostly of average role players in the NBA. Kevin Durant's departure from Oklahoma City in last year's free agency was devastating for the Thunder fans who were afraid that Russell Westbrook might do the same. During the summer, fans were eager to see Westbrook sign the extension, but he said on Thunder's Media Day that he didn't have time to do it because of his new child, but that he wants to stay in Oklahoma City.
Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder agree to a deal
Thunder fans don't have to fear anymore. Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder have agreed to a five-year, $205 million extension, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. This deal was signed using the new designated player veteran extension and will be the richest incredible in NBA history. This deal will kick in after the upcoming 2017-18 season, and it guarantees Westbrook $233 million over six years.
Thunder's general manager Sam Presti confirmed Westbrook's signing and made a statement on Friday. He praised Westbrook's commitment to the Thunder and stated how proud they are to have him as the leader of their franchise.
He thanked the ownership and Westbrook and his family for the commitment and support they showed in supporting their vision for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Can the Thunder challenge the Warriors?
Last year was incredible for Westbrook, as he became the first person since Oscar Roberston to average a triple-double during the entire NBA season but the OKC Thunder lost in the first round of the NBA Playoffs to the Houston Rockets.
Last year Westbrook was the only star player on their team while the others were average NBA players. Westbrook carried the team all by himself, but a first-round exit from was the max for their team last year. In the offseason, the Thunder acquired Paul George and Carmelo Anthony via trades.
With two of them, Oklahoma City now has three all-stars and may just have to power to challenge the Golden State Warriors.
With Carmelo Anthony playing power forward, Thunder's lineup will be Westbrook-Roberson-George-Anthony-Adams.
With Andre Roberson and Paul George, they have a great defensive backcourt, and Steven Adams can protect the rim very well. They may be one of the best defensive teams in the league, while on offense they have three amazing scorers in George, Carmelo, and Westbrook. This will be an incredible NBA season, and it couldn't come sooner.