It wouldn't be presumptuous to suggest Russell Westbrook looks like he plays with a chip on his shoulder, so it shouldn't come as any surprise that Kevin Durant's departure from the Oklahoma City Thunder will motivate the explosive guard even further.
Westbrook was described as "ticked off" about it by The Oklahoman's Anthony Slater, and is apparently very eager for the season to start.
"He's ready," a source told Slater.
Westbrook hasn't made public comments or social media posts on the matter. Durant, however, admitted recently that his decision to leave will ensure the relationship between the two "won't ever be the same again."
While putting money on Westbrook collecting his second NBA scoring title this coming season is a solid bet, the bigger concern for the Thunder is Westbrook's contract status. An unrestricted free agent next summer, Oklahoma City cannot afford to lose another superstar player for nothing. That's why whatever their ultimate plan is, trade rumors will swirl around the Thunder for the better part of the next year.
Westbrook has given the team no indication he wants out, according to Slater, but that's hardly surprising at this early stage. At the same time, what is also unsurprising is his reported unwillingness to sign with the Thunder long-term now and put their minds at ease.
Related: Rival GMs see Celtics as most likely destination for Westbrook
The Thunder are in a tricky spot if they put their remaining superstar on the block. After all, why would a team like Westbrook's hometown Los Angeles Lakers want to part ways with young talent like Brandon Ingram now when they could simply try and sign Westbrook next summer? Same goes for the Boston Celtics and their wealth of guards and draft assets.
There is little reason to doubt Westbrook could be about to have the contract year of contract years. The ultimate question is, what does it mean for the Thunder?
