Sources: Westbrook eyes OKC exit, likes Miami
Within the aftermath of co-star Paul George’s departure, Oklahoma Metropolis’s Russell Westbrook welcomes the thought of basic supervisor Sam Presti engineering a commerce that may deliver an finish to his illustrious, 11-year profession with the franchise, league sources advised ESPN.
The Miami Warmth have expressed curiosity, a possible vacation spot that additionally appeals to Westbrook, league sources mentioned.
Westbrook and his agent, Thad Foucher, have been discussing commerce prospects and situations with Presti, and the edges are each motivated to discover a decision sooner relatively than later, league sources advised ESPN.
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Westbrook desires to play for a staff pursuing competition, which is now not the case with the Thunder after George compelled a commerce to the LA Clippers to accomplice with Kawhi Leonard.
Westbrook’s affinity for Oklahoma Metropolis, the area and fan base has by no means wavered, however the Thunder’s falling out of competition — sped up by the George commerce — makes the thought of enjoying elsewhere in his 30s really feel as if it may very well be the correct aggressive determination, sources mentioned.
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Bobby Marks provides his picks for under-the-radar groups which might be within the working to commerce for Russell Westbrook.
The Thunder have been eradicated within the opening spherical of the Western Convention playoffs three straight years.
Westbrook, 30, has 4 years and $170 million left on his contract. The Thunder have accrued six future first-round picks up to now three days in trades with the Clippers (George) and Denver Nuggets (Jerami Grant), together with two first-round picks (2021, unprotected; 2023, protected) through the Miami Warmth.
Miami acquired All-Star guard Jimmy Butler in a four-way sign-and-trade initially of free company. Staff president Pat Riley and head coach Erik Spoelstra proceed to be aggressive in pursuing star-level veteran expertise with out the advantage of salary-cap area or many coveted future property to hawk in offers.