Thunder really haven't had the cap space to pursue any big name free agents in the past few years.

I'm bitter about his decision, like was said above, it makes all the words he has said in the past ring hollow. That being said, I don't think he is the same player he was after he witnessed the Paul George injury, then went through his own.

These cap space dreams are just dreams... OKC wont even have the opportunity at one (they're all gone this season) before Russ' fate is determined... And even then, OKC will really struggle to pull any quality free agents. Mark Cuban and his open pockets has struck out on every major free agent since their 2011 title. It's a brutal landscape.

Ugh, sorry if I seem negative, but I think some don't realize that OKC just went from contending for titles annually to, well, not. Those days are over. Without KD there's no path to a title anymore. It's just a really surprising and dramatic fall...

I still am looking forward to supporting the team that reps OKC this season.

I dk what pisses me off more kd leaving or all the dumb thunder fans telling me I shouldn't be upset angry confused and betrayed that kd pulled a 180 and left. Buring jerseys and the videos is too far but he's going to get booed and he's going to be villain. If him leaving is nothing personal against us, me booing at the top of my lungs and loathing everything about him because he spurned us isn't personal either. I am a thunder fan, not a kd fan. I hate players who hurt the thunder, and kd is now one of them. The rest was all a big lie, this is a business nothing more, the rest is just PR brand management BS.

Lol. Without KD, OKC absolutely played like a second tier team. Check their record.

And that's the other problem - OKC couldn't attract free agents with KD. Free agents aren't coming here without him. Our best free agent in OKC history is Nenad Krstic. OKC won't be able to attract anyone now... It's the new reality.

I'm not trying to be overly negative, but I don't think a lot of people realize OKC may trade Russ and tank. We could be a bottom dweller for a few years...

um the best free agent signing in Oklahoma City history is Peja Stojakovic.

the best free agent signing of the thunder might be livingston, but clearly we gave up on him way too early.

I wouldn't have a problem with KD leaving but for the 2 years before he left the rhetoric he kept saying.... He was on the 3rd best team and instead of believing in himself to take his team over the top, he jumped ship to a better team.
KD could have closed out GSW at home but choked the game away going 10-31

KD did okc no favors if he actually wanted to help us he could have done a sign and trade, but instead he chose the route which allows him to get the most cash the 1-1.

Will probably get ripped for this but i have more respect in the man who makes $40k and volunteers at the soup kitchen every saturday than a person who donates tons of cash when the cameras are around.

KD isn't too fond of the media, here in okc he was protected, not sure he will be that protected out in the bay area.

I am not ready to crown the warriors the champs so quickly, with KD's jones fracture and Curry's ankles along with Green's attitude you never know what the playoffs will look like.

I suppose I'm fortunate in that I haven't seen any OKC people burn jerseys. I saw one guy who burned what looked like a KD shirt (not an authentic jersey), but didn't think anything of it.

Ugh, sorry if I seem negative, but I think some don't realize that OKC just went from contending for titles annually to, well, not. Those days are over. Without KD there's no path to a title anymore. It's just a really surprising and dramatic fall...

I still am looking forward to supporting the team that reps OKC this season.

Pretty sure we all realize that and that's why you're seeing the reaction you're seeing.

Just caught up on the news and this has to be the saddest one of all

http://www.thescore.com/nba/news/1054878-thunder-fan-leaves-coward-sign-outside-durant-s-house

I suppose any PR is good PR, right?

I think the Free Agent thing is too difficult to asses at this moment. OKC has been unique as a franchise since its inception and there have been a variety of snares that put OKC in bad positions with these free agents. And unfortunately due to Kevin's dicking around (seems like it was on purpose now that we know his end decision...why not wait and completely undermine the only team who could possibly compete with you if they found some serviceable replacements by ensuring this replacements sign elsewhere) we have no way to find that out this season before Russ hits free agency.

Steven Adams will have to be something more special than anyone ever thought he would be and we'll have to shore up at Power Forward if we're gonna compete this season.

But part of me says just blow it up and start again.

You need to blow it up, warriors will dominate for 4-5 years, develop some young talent in the mean time.

As a person, KD seems like a great dude. Don't know for sure, but he certainly did some great things.

As a Basketball player: Mad respect. Dude can do things that nobody his size should be able to do. He's really quite amazing.

As an athlete/competitor: he gave it all away. He's gonna have to build from the ground up once he's done with his foray in San Francisco. God help him if Golden State doesn't win. The criticism will make the LeBron stuff from 2011 look like a mom talking to her 3-month-old. And nobody will impressed by a championship if they don't tear through the entire league.

Unfortunately, I think this puts the league in a tough place.

My dream would be to trade Russ for a ton of draft picks and quality role players and then he come back next year in Free Agency with a full cabinet for the future.

um the best free agent signing in Oklahoma City history is Peja Stojakovic.

the best free agent signing of the thunder might be livingston, but clearly we gave up on him way too early.

Realistically, our best free agent signings were probably Derek Fisher and Caron Butler.

As a person, KD seems like a great dude. Don't know for sure, but he certainly did some great things.

As a Basketball player: Mad respect. Dude can do things that nobody his size should be able to do. He's really quite amazing.

As an athlete/competitor: he gave it all away. He's gonna have to build from the ground up once he's done with his foray in San Francisco. God help him if Golden State doesn't win. The criticism will make the LeBron stuff from 2011 look like a mom talking to her 3-month-old. And nobody will impressed by a championship if they don't tear through the entire league.

Unfortunately, I think this puts the league in a tough place.

Puts the league in a horrible place. What exactly is the point of any game next year sans the finals?

If Russ wants to stay, you absolutely don't trade him unless you have major doubt as to his long term commitment. We have a lot of young talent and can build around Westbrook with it. If he wants to leave, trade him. We've built a good supporting cast though, no reason to completely blow it up yet when we still have one superstar level player. This sucks, no doubt, but all the overly dramatic talk of the Thunder's future of irrelevance is premature.

If Russ wants to stay, you absolutely don't trade him unless you have major doubt as to his long term commitment. We have a lot of young talent and can build around Westbrook with it. If he wants to leave, trade him. We've built a good supporting cast though, no reason to completely blow it up yet when we still have one superstar level player. This sucks, no doubt, but all the overly dramatic talk of the Thunder's future of irrelevance is premature.

It's gone from we aren't winning titles anytime soon (fair), to like this is the end of the franchise and were moving back to Seattle.

Lol. Without KD, OKC absolutely played like a second tier team. Check their record.

And that's the other problem - OKC couldn't attract free agents with KD. Free agents aren't coming here without him. Our best free agent in OKC history is Nenad Krstic. OKC won't be able to attract anyone now... It's the new reality.

I'm not trying to be overly negative, but I don't think a lot of people realize OKC may trade Russ and tank. We could be a bottom dweller for a few years...

No one wants to sign in OKC because no one wants to live in OKC. The city has nothing to offer for a lot of these players. I mean seriously. You're a guy making a lot of money. OKC ranks right with Amarillo for cities most would consider living in. That's the cold hard truth dude.

Right now it is a boring ass city. It is getting better, but man I could hardly stand being there for over a week when I was last there. Everytime I come back, I come with open arms ready to hug and hoping it gets better. The place never seems to change. No matter how much new development happens, it's still a stagnated city. Hopefully that changes when I come back in September.

Quite honestly, I think this is hilarious that Durant left OKC. It doesn't bother me one bit. I think this will have very little impact on the city other than a few people's emotions. He existed before the Thunder and the fact people were saying "I love you please stay" to "get the f#ck out" is hilarious and sad at the same time. Why is this such a big deal? It's literally people trying to throw a ball through a circle. Like I get it helps with recognition, but people freaking out on Facebook, posting Youtube videos, yelling at people on the streets. I don't understand it.

OKC will definitely have trouble attracting free agents. Not just because of what OKC has to offer (or doesn't), but because it's hard for any mediocre team to attract free agents. If they blow it up and trade Westbrook, that's what OKC becomes, a sub mediocre team. They become a Wolves, Hornets or Suns tier team.

Hell, the Lakers and Knicks couldn't attract top level free agent talent because of how bad they are. They are having to build through draft picks and trades.

Now New York is a bit of a destination for free agents thanks to the Rose trade and having Melo. They've improved.

Lakers couldn't get anyone.

Look at the Mavs. Couldn't get Howard, LMA, Melo, Lebron, etc.

I do think OKC has its lack of things to do, national perception, etc going against, but being a below mediocre team will be the biggest blow.

No one wants to sign in OKC because no one wants to live in OKC. The city has nothing to offer for a lot of these players. I mean seriously. You're a guy making a lot of money. OKC ranks right with Amarillo for cities most would consider living in. That's the cold hard truth dude.

Right now it is a boring ass city. It is getting better, but man I could hardly stand being there for over a week when I was last there. Everytime I come back, I come with open arms ready to hug and hoping it gets better. The place never seems to change. No matter how much new development happens, it's still a stagnated city. Hopefully that changes when I come back in September.

Quite honestly, I think this is hilarious that Durant left OKC. It doesn't bother me one bit. I think this will have very little impact on the city other than a few people's emotions. He existed before the Thunder and the fact people were saying "I love you please stay" to "get the f#ck out" is hilarious and sad at the same time. Why is this such a big deal? It's literally people trying to throw a ball through a circle. Like I get it helps with recognition, but people freaking out on Facebook, posting Youtube videos, yelling at people on the streets. I don't understand it.

Why do you bother to participate here? It makes no sense to me.

Presti is in a tough spot. Durant's gone with nothing to show for it. Presti's busy getting a serious read on Westbrook. Trade now and you get a boat load of draft picks or players. Wait and take a chance he won't leave and you potentially lose BOTH of these players with nothing in return.

The pressure will be on for Westbrook to sign early (this summer or before the deadline in January or February). Presti is very smart - he's not going to watch this happen again.

Best story I've read yet on why Durant made the decision he made is from USA Today.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/2016/07/04/kevin-durant-warriors-free-agent-thunder/86684632/

I think it's pretty lame to leave for Golden State -- of all teams. The USA Today article seems to indicate Durant's had his eye on Golden State for a couple of years. It also seems to say Durant really wanted to go to the GSW but was concerned about the PR blowback.

Up 3 games to 1 and to watch KD dribble off his shoe like a high schooler, shoot terribly, a laziness on defense. Remember, OKC wins and the GSW dream is gone for Durant. The NBA can really make you cynical. But Sam Presti? He's brilliant and I have faith they will figure this out. Can you imagine a Thunder-Warriors WCF next year? And the Thunder WIN? PR blowback becomes PR humiliation. At this point, honestly, I would LOVE IT!

Why do you bother to participate here? It makes no sense to me.

Because if you are like me you love the State but are not afraid to tell it like it is no matter if it hurts. He is right. I am Black, native born Black Oklahoman and I live somewhere else because of the politics, archaic laws, lack of entertainment options for Black people in OKC. The NBA is made up of 75% black players. This is a State where the Gov disrespected the POTUS, a black man, in 2016 you can't buy a cold beer or wine in a grocery store or anything above 3,2 alcohol. What is a rich black guy to do? P. Gasol also let the cat out of the bag when he did not come. If KD could not get other top players to play with him in OKC what other choice did he have?other small markets in OKC category(Memphis, NO) have large African American demographics and if you were black you would know those cities host numerous national events for Black people. SLC, Sacramento, Seattle and even Phoenix are like OKC with small African American populations are how many free agents flock there? Seattle and Phoenix have "other" selling points.

Why do you bother to participate here? It makes no sense to me.

Because if you are like me you love the State but are not afraid to tell it like it is no matter if it hurts. He is right. I am Black, native born Black Oklahoman and I live somewhere else because of the politics, archaic laws, lack of entertainment options for Black people in OKC. The NBA is made up of 75% black players. This is a State where the Gov disrespected the POTUS, a black man, in 2016 you can't buy a cold beer or wine in a grocery store or anything above 3,2 alcohol. What is a rich black guy to do? P. Gasol also let the cat out of the bag when he did not come. If KD could not get other top players to play with him in OKC what other choice did he have?

No one wants to sign in OKC because no one wants to live in OKC. The city has nothing to offer for a lot of these players. I mean seriously. You're a guy making a lot of money. OKC ranks right with Amarillo for cities most would consider living in. That's the cold hard truth dude.

Right now it is a boring ass city. It is getting better, but man I could hardly stand being there for over a week when I was last there. Everytime I come back, I come with open arms ready to hug and hoping it gets better. The place never seems to change. No matter how much new development happens, it's still a stagnated city. Hopefully that changes when I come back in September.

Quite honestly, I think this is hilarious that Durant left OKC. It doesn't bother me one bit. I think this will have very little impact on the city other than a few people's emotions. He existed before the Thunder and the fact people were saying "I love you please stay" to "get the f#ck out" is hilarious and sad at the same time. Why is this such a big deal? It's literally people trying to throw a ball through a circle. Like I get it helps with recognition, but people freaking out on Facebook, posting Youtube videos, yelling at people on the streets. I don't understand it.

Your pointless hatred for Oklahoma City is unwelcome and unproductive. I would respectfully ask that you take that hatred elsewhere. I have loved Oklahoma City as my home long before there was a Thunder and will for as long as God grants me breath. Hating it is your prerogative, but I would equally hate having a life so empty that I would get on a message board to proclaim how much I hated that city. I cannot fathom why you participate here.

I am Black, native born Black Oklahoman and I live somewhere else because of the politics, archaic laws, lack of entertainment options for Black people in OKC.While I seldom agree with your comments here, I do believe you've hit the nail squarely on the head with this post! The sad fact is that, at one time, we DID have one of the best set of entertainment options for you here -- but it was almost totally segregated and few whites were even aware it existed. One of the most liberating experiences of my young life was discovering "Tony's Place," a BBQ joint/coffeehouse about a block from the old Moon School, which was totally color blind. It was run by Tony and Leah Potts, a pair of young Black twins, and their clientele was totally mixed. It's where I first heard Mason Williams play guitar and sing "Old Bill," became addicted to the strong camp coffee they brewed all night long, and enjoyed chess games with some of the best and craftiest players I ever encountered.

And like all the rest of the original Deep Deuce culture, where Charlie Christian revolutionized the use of the guitar and the "Kansas City Sound" was polished to perfection, it was swept away in the Urban Renewal crazy days of the Sixties. It has never recovered, nor -- with the current politics of our state -- is it likely to do so within my lifetime, or yours. All of us, not just Blacks, whites, yellow, or brown, have much to regret, and much work ahead if we hope to correct things.

Question for PluPan and others sharing his sentiment:

Not that you're right or wrong, but what amenities do you want and NEED that OKC simply doesn't have or provide?

DC already answered: politics, and lack of entertainment areas for black people.

No one wants to sign in OKC because no one wants to live in OKC. The city has nothing to offer for a lot of these players. I mean seriously. You're a guy making a lot of money. OKC ranks right with Amarillo for cities most would consider living in. That's the cold hard truth dude.

Right now it is a boring ass city. It is getting better, but man I could hardly stand being there for over a week when I was last there. Everytime I come back, I come with open arms ready to hug and hoping it gets better. The place never seems to change. No matter how much new development happens, it's still a stagnated city. Hopefully that changes when I come back in September.

Quite honestly, I think this is hilarious that Durant left OKC. It doesn't bother me one bit. I think this will have very little impact on the city other than a few people's emotions. He existed before the Thunder and the fact people were saying "I love you please stay" to "get the f#ck out" is hilarious and sad at the same time. Why is this such a big deal? It's literally people trying to throw a ball through a circle. Like I get it helps with recognition, but people freaking out on Facebook, posting Youtube videos, yelling at people on the streets. I don't understand it.

Wow, ok BChris. Maybe you should take your "talents" off this forum if you hate OKC that much. Your participation here, like BChris', doesn't make much sense.

It's going to be interesting to see how the city and fans react to the first bit of ~*real*~ adversity this young franchise has had to deal with.

No one wants to sign in OKC because no one wants to live in OKC. The city has nothing to offer for a lot of these players. I mean seriously. You're a guy making a lot of money. OKC ranks right with Amarillo for cities most would consider living in. That's the cold hard truth dude.

Right now it is a boring ass city. It is getting better, but man I could hardly stand being there for over a week when I was last there. Everytime I come back, I come with open arms ready to hug and hoping it gets better. The place never seems to change. No matter how much new development happens, it's still a stagnated city. Hopefully that changes when I come back in September.

Quite honestly, I think this is hilarious that Durant left OKC. It doesn't bother me one bit. I think this will have very little impact on the city other than a few people's emotions. He existed before the Thunder and the fact people were saying "I love you please stay" to "get the f#ck out" is hilarious and sad at the same time. Why is this such a big deal? It's literally people trying to throw a ball through a circle. Like I get it helps with recognition, but people freaking out on Facebook, posting Youtube videos, yelling at people on the streets. I don't understand it.

Edit: I was being too personal with my response to this. But seriously, just GTFO.

Have you ever explored OKC at all lately? I have no idea how you assess OKC as stagnant. I suppose you were probably speeding down 23rd too quickly to notice any change.

I think the backlash is so serious because the city has always collectively had a problem with insecurity and identity. Oklahoma is a state of uncertain region: it's not Southern, it's not Midwestern, it's not Texas, and "Southern Plains" doesn't really bring to mind any type of identity beyond a place people moved to because the land was free and it's a good place to be from as you make small talk over lattes in a Pacific Northwestern coffee shop. Drawing an NBA team with top NBA skill was helping to cement the direction the city's identity would take, as living conditions gradually became less boring -- growing up here in the 80s and 90s was as drab as could be -- thanks to MAPS initiatives. It's a blow to the sense of growth and purpose the city has when the basketball demigod for whom the city rolled out the red carpet at all times decides to chase a more certain championship riding the coattails of the superteam that just beat him in the WCF, in a series that by most accounts was blown by Durant himself.

This brings to mind questions as to the nature of his play in the WCF. How was he such a beast throughout the season and the playoffs leading to the WCF, only to play like an amateur against the GSW? I remember thinking during games 6 and 7 that it felt as though I was watching OKC take a dive, and that tinfoil hattery seems a bit less crazy given yesterday's news and the rumors that he's been long eyeing a move to the Bay Area.

I wanna slap every person I see volunteer their semi-literate rants about how the NBA is a business and Durant just made a wise business decision and nobody has a right to be upset. Of course people have a right to be upset; the people of any city love a franchise player that sticks with them and serves as the face of the team and, by proxy, the city that the team represents. Every city wants their Larry Bird, who spends their whole career growing the team and retiring with an honorable legacy. Sticking with the team and city that's invested in you and has faith in your abilities shows integrity, but in my view, KD's ring chase kind of shattered any integrity he feigned over the years with his poorly written tweets.

Granted, I say all this as a casual, reluctant Thunder fan. The Thunder killed hockey in this town, and hockey is my preferred sport, but I'll always root for the home team regardless. And from what I've witnessed, while there's every reason to be disappointed in Durant, there's no reason to be disappointed that Westbrook will take the star role. I find Westbrook to be stronger, more consistent and reliable, and he doesn't break as easily as Durant. Durant's great when he's on, but once shaken even a little, he falls apart; he's great at getting you to the playoffs, and great at losing them for you. I look forward to seeing what Westbrook can do next season.

No one wants to sign in OKC because no one wants to live in OKC. The city has nothing to offer for a lot of these players. I mean seriously. You're a guy making a lot of money. OKC ranks right with Amarillo for cities most would consider living in. That's the cold hard truth dude.

Right now it is a boring ass city. It is getting better, but man I could hardly stand being there for over a week when I was last there. Everytime I come back, I come with open arms ready to hug and hoping it gets better. The place never seems to change. No matter how much new development happens, it's still a stagnated city. Hopefully that changes when I come back in September.

Quite honestly, I think this is hilarious that Durant left OKC. It doesn't bother me one bit. I think this will have very little impact on the city other than a few people's emotions. He existed before the Thunder and the fact people were saying "I love you please stay" to "get the f#ck out" is hilarious and sad at the same time. Why is this such a big deal? It's literally people trying to throw a ball through a circle. Like I get it helps with recognition, but people freaking out on Facebook, posting Youtube videos, yelling at people on the streets. I don't understand it.

I truly feel sorry for people like you with so much hate in their life.
your insight could not be more wrong.
I can name you several cities that have NBA teams that have never signed a notable free agent.
Denver much more to do than okc, has never signed a top free agent.
The clippers haven't been able to lure a named free agent in their history. There big 3, 2 were drafted and 1 was given to them in a trade.
Its hard to get all-stars in their prime to move and if they do move its usually via a trade.
At least Carmelo told Den he wasn't going to resign so they were able to get pieces back for him.

Did you think that maybe one of the reason no notable free agents signed with okc is b/c players realized that KD already had 1 foot out the door? If KD wouldn't commit, why should they?

No problem with KD leaving its his right to leave, but he did it the wrong way. He left okc high and dry. Not only did he run to the competition but by dragging okc along he knew he was eliminating his toughest competition by tying up okc's money and not allowing them to go after other pieces.

If you do come back in September I encourage you to open your eyes and leave the hatred either at the state line or at the airport you fly from.

We need to sit back and let this process play itself out. Allow Russell Westbrook (a fierce competitor) to decide what he wants to do; stop predicting and prematurely talking trade, Sam Presti will gauge Westbrook's situation.

Kevin Durant could have made $30 million in OKC; he took a $3 million cut ($27 million) going to Golden State. Now, we didn't get anything in return for the trade; however, we freed up $30 million which should be attractive to a number of quality players.

Durant was cautious; he signed a two year contract which tells me that he's not fully committed to the GSW. Looking back on KD's confusion; he made the decision that he felt was in his best interest. Recall, he said that was a basketball decision.

K. D., you will be greatly missed. No organization should put itself in a situation where it's so dependent on a person that he/she can't be replaced. Place more faith in Russell Westbrook; he's more direct with his conversations.

Durant has until July 7 to cement his decision.

Recall seeing a 'for sale' sign in May on Kevin Durant's condominiums; had he already made his decision about leaving the Thunder. Durant, too many things just don't add up.

I guess Durant was a lot more pessimistic than most of us because he couldn't even give it another year. Maybe he didn't want to risk Westbrook taking his seat on the bench at Golden State? This season is going to be clouded with the high possibility that Westbrook will leave the Thunder and its hard to build a team around a leader that is going to leave.

I guess Durant was a lot more pessimistic than most of us because he couldn't even give it another year. Maybe he didn't want to risk Westbrook taking his seat on the bench at Golden State? This season is going to be clouded with the high possibility that Westbrook will leave the Thunder and its hard to build a team around a leader that is going to leave.

You don't know that.

That's the kind of attitude that will surely run Russell Westbrook off. Give Russell time to provide leadership, he's a fierce competitor. As much as I hate to say this; IMHO, Kevin Durant just didn't possess the leadership skills necessary to lead; he seemed timid and passive (a mamma's boy).

Wish Durant the best! Golden State's Draymond Green is the dominate leader on the Warriors. Can Kevin tolerate Green pulling his strings or scolding him in public.

Did we get anything for Kevin Durant? Nothing in trade value; however it wasn't a total loss, we now have $30 millions of CAP space freed up.

I think the backlash is so serious because the city has always collectively had a problem with insecurity and identity. Oklahoma is a state of uncertain region: it's not Southern, it's not Midwestern, it's not Texas, and "Southern Plains" doesn't really bring to mind any type of identity beyond a place people moved to because the land was free and it's a good place to be from as you make small talk over lattes in a Pacific Northwestern coffee shop. Drawing an NBA team with top NBA skill was helping to cement the direction the city's identity would take, as living conditions gradually became less boring -- growing up here in the 80s and 90s was as drab as could be -- thanks to MAPS initiatives. It's a blow to the sense of growth and purpose the city has when the basketball demigod for whom the city rolled out the red carpet at all times decides to chase a more certain championship riding the coattails of the superteam that just beat him in the WCF, in a series that by most accounts was blown by Durant himself.

This brings to mind questions as to the nature of his play in the WCF. How was he such a beast throughout the season and the playoffs leading to the WCF, only to play like an amateur against the GSW? I remember thinking during games 6 and 7 that it felt as though I was watching OKC take a dive, and that tinfoil hattery seems a bit less crazy given yesterday's news and the rumors that he's been long eyeing a move to the Bay Area.

I wanna slap every person I see volunteer their semi-literate rants about how the NBA is a business and Durant just made a wise business decision and nobody has a right to be upset. Of course people have a right to be upset; the people of any city love a franchise player that sticks with them and serves as the face of the team and, by proxy, the city that the team represents. Every city wants their Larry Bird, who spends their whole career growing the team and retiring with an honorable legacy. Sticking with the team and city that's invested in you and has faith in your abilities shows integrity, but in my view, KD's ring chase kind of shattered any integrity he feigned over the years with his poorly written tweets.

Granted, I say all this as a casual, reluctant Thunder fan. The Thunder killed hockey in this town, and hockey is my preferred sport, but I'll always root for the home team regardless. And from what I've witnessed, while there's every reason to be disappointed in Durant, there's no reason to be disappointed that Westbrook will take the star role. I find Westbrook to be stronger, more consistent and reliable, and he doesn't break as easily as Durant. Durant's great when he's on, but once shaken even a little, he falls apart; he's great at getting you to the playoffs, and great at losing them for you. I look forward to seeing what Westbrook can do next season.

Darn good post.

The smart business move is to get Russell to extend his current contract and take next summer's free agency out of play. The extension can come with a raise. This gives the team stability and the ability to hit what is left of the free agency market, plus be able to get on free agents earlier next season. The rest of the smart business move is that if you can't get Russ to extend, you trade him. I really, REALLY don't want this to happen. Love Russ way more than I ever did KD.

But the reality is that if they can't extend Russ it means that he doesn't intend to re-sign when he hits free agency, and this time next year the Thunder is setting on a pot of money, little talent and a team nobody wants to play for. An even worse situation than how KD just left us. Waiting out his free agency would be pretty dumb and reckless, and Presti is neither. I would expect that we get an announcement very soon that Russ is extended, or - perhaps more likely - we see a blockbuster trade before the season. We got no value for KD, and while it is completely understandable why they waited, they won't take the same approach to Russell.

How do we move on from this? Who do we sign? Any good options?

Bleacher Report had an article earlier with a supposed "source" claiming that there was no chance Westbrook signs an extension before next Summer. BR stinks on mobile so just check the site out, it was one of my top stories on my Thunder team stream.

I really think Presti needs to blow this team up now and start from scratch. I don't see Westbrook staying and we might as well get something out of him while we can before he hits the market next Summer. There will be teams that sell themselves for him.

The smart business move is to get Russell to extend his current contract and take next summer's free agency out of play. The extension can come with a raise. This gives the team stability and the ability to hit what is left of the free agency market, plus be able to get on free agents earlier next season. The rest of the smart business move is that if you can't get Russ to extend, you trade him. I really, REALLY don't want this to happen. Love Russ way more than I ever did KD.

But the reality is that if they can't extend Russ it means that he doesn't intend to re-sign when he hits free agency, and this time next year the Thunder is setting on a pot of money, little talent and a team nobody wants to play for. An even worse situation than how KD just left us. Waiting out his free agency would be pretty dumb and reckless, and Presti is neither. I would expect that we get an announcement very soon that Russ is extended, or - perhaps more likely - we see a blockbuster trade before the season. We got no value for KD, and while it is completely understandable why they waited, they won't take the same approach to Russell.

If I'm Russ I don't sign a contract extension now because you can only generally speculate about the caps and related numbers once next season is finished. He'd be locking in numbers that would leave money on the table even if he were personally committed to staying in OKC, and I firmly believe he has absolutely no intention of staying.

So its either reboot the team this year, or next. Take your medicine sooner or later. If you want max value, you have to trade him now. Conversely, no team would likely want to trade for him now given that next season everyone knows he'll be a free agent.

Bottom line, The Thunder are in format-the-hard-drive-and-reboot mode. I hope everyone enjoyed the "salad days" of the last few years for this franchise, cuz it's gonna be a while before they return, if ever. Methinks some lean, lean times are ahead, and in all honesty, I see a bleak future for the franchise...

Bleacher Report had an article earlier with a supposed "source" claiming that there was no chance Westbrook signs an extension before next Summer. BR stinks on mobile so just check the site out, it was one of my top stories on my Thunder team stream.

I really think Presti needs to blow this team up now and start from scratch. I don't see Westbrook staying and we might as well get something out of him while we can before he hits the market next Summer. There will be teams that sell themselves for him.

The article said Westbrook won't sign an extension this summer, which is not news. He would make way less this summer than next summer. The question is if he'll sign next summer. If he will then I don't see any reason to blow it up. Build around Russ.

How do we move on from this? Who do we sign? Any good options?

Don't be shocked if OKC goes all in on getting Blake Griffin next summer.

Don't be shocked in OKC goes all in on getting Blake Griffin.

With what? The Clippers have a point guard.

Ok, not sure if anyone was referring to me but I still stand my ground that it's pretty lame to burn his jersey and take personal shots at the guy. He's always been a great ambassador to this city and has been nothing but a positive for OKC in every way. Am I upset about him leaving? Of course I am, I'm pissed. But I understand that it's a part of the game. This isn't the same league it was back in the 80s/90s where loyalty was extremely important to players/owners. With a few exceptions, like Kobe/Duncan, players are on the move more than ever. But those guys are/will be legends like MJ/Magic/Bird. KD could've been in that same category if he won multiple championships here. He'll be a Hall of Famer one day, but will never been considered one of the "Greats," IMO. Again it was his decision to leave, and I'm upset, but I'm not going to lose any sleep over it.

What I will lose sleep over a little is knowing what could potentially happen if we lose Russ as well, either via trade or FA next year. Like some others have said on here, I've been more of a Russ fan over the years than KD. Not sure if I said it on here, but while the majority of the city was ripping him for years for TOs/terrible shot selection, I was arguing about his leadership and attitude that no one else on the team had, except Perkins. He was a terrible player though. When KD would go into a shooting slump, he'd be extremely timid with the ball. Russ was never afraid and would attack and continue to shoot. Did I agree with all his shot selections? Hell no, but we needed him. I've told everyone around me for years, if I had to give up one of our 2 stars, it would be KD. No doubt in my mind. So for years, the fans, the media, and social media tore him apart. It wasn't until KD was out with injury, did a lot of fans really embrace Russ. Those people know who they are. So my question is, why would Russ want to stay here? Do we really have loyalty to him? So many never appreciated what he did for us until just a couple of years ago. And now with KD gone, I don't blame him if he leaves. And I'm certain our fans will rip him if it happens like they are doing to KD. And what happens to the Thunder at that point? Most likely, it will be years of mediocrity. At least relative to what OKC has grown accustomed to. Not saying we'll be terrible forever, but like many other good/great teams, it's a cycle. It was only 15-20 years that Arco was the loudest arena in the NBA with the best fans. After Charlotte got their expansion team, they were able to put together some solid seasons with a solid duo of LJ/Zo. After they were gone, what happened? God forbid that happens to us.

I'm just calling things like I see it. I said it already in another thread. Most of our "diehard" Thunder fans only became NBA fans in the past decade. We haven't had a franchise long enough so that fans are too vested to leave. They will leave. And you can argue that we supported the Thunder/Hornets during bad years as well, but not only were those just a few seasons, but that was when the NBA was new and cool to have. Someone brought up OU of the 90s. I agree with that comparison 100%. So many bandwagon fans fell off the face of the planet then, and then became "diehards" in the 2000s. I hope I'm wrong, and I hope Presti can work some magic. But like many others have stated, it has been damn near impossible to get superstars to come to OKC through FA. And this will be an unpopular view as well, but I agree that OKC is still a small-time/backwards city where many black players don't necessarily want to live. I will never rip on the city, but it's hard to compare OKC to LA, NY, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, etc. I lived in a couple of the major cities, and I see what they have to offer. But I choose to call OKC home, because it's where I grew up, my family is here, and I love the city as much as anyone else here. I understand the pride you guys have in our city, I have the same pride. But it's doesn't have the same amenities/quality of life that certain players view as desirable. Pau Gasol's reasons were a perfect example of how most NBA players probably view OKC.

I don't think we're a championship caliber team right now, but if we can get one more piece or if Adams elevates his game to a completely different level, I think we'll be OK with Russ leading the way. We'll have arguably the best starting backcourt in the league, so if we develop a monster inside game, I feel we can compete for the championship. But I don't see him staying after how our "fan" have treated him. Again, not calling out anyone on here specifically. Just how I see how fan base in general

The article said Westbrook won't sign an extension this summer, which is not news. He would make way less this summer than next summer. The question is if he'll sign next summer. If he will then I don't see any reason to blow it up. Build around Russ.

^This

With what? The Clippers have a point guard.

Griffin's free agency is next year as well. If we can keep Westbrook, we would recruiting Griffin in his free agency. Have to hope the allure of coming home means something to him and that Westbrook wants to hang around. It's a good idea and a fairly realistic one, but all the pieces will have to fall into place over the next year.

I more meant this year. We are way under the cap now and need to get someone to fill the spot.

Soonermike,

Not sure what the context is, but I agree that burning his jersey is just plain silly and immature. But, every team has those fans.


I more meant this year. We are way under the cap now and need to get someone to fill the spot.

I don't even think you try to fill that space immediately. Just my couch coach playing here, but I think you field offers for Westbrook and get all new young talent, bring in a couple nomad veterans for 1-2 year contracts to teach the young guys the ropes and be bottom dwellers for 3-4 years...

Durant was cautious; he signed a two year contract which tells me that he's not fully committed to the GSW. Looking back on KD's confusion; he made the decision that he felt was in his best interest. Recall, he said that was a basketball decision.

He only signed 1+1 with GSW because it allows him to sign a new contract under the impending, higher cap. It would make zero sense to lock in a 4 year max deal based on the old cap-- and doubly so when he has less than 10 years of service. For KD, the big contract will come next summer. He'll most likely get 35% of GSW's cap unless they convince him to take a bit less.

Will GSW be able to afford his and Steph's contract next year?

Or will they be able to resign him using bird rights?

I wonder if there is any way the Thunder could snag Blake Griffin.

Would be a great replacement for KD, not only in ability but connection to the community.

Also, regarding that pink parrot owner who wrote "coward" on his for sale sign. Pathetic self-promotion, in my opinion.

The article said Westbrook won't sign an extension this summer, which is not news. He would make way less this summer than next summer. The question is if he'll sign next summer. If he will then I don't see any reason to blow it up. Build around Russ.

An extension would only be a year or maybe two (can't remember how long they can go there), they would be able to include a raise, and it would put delay his unrestricted free agency until after he hits the 10 year mark and would be eligible for 35% of a MUCH larger cap. Would make sense for Russ if he has any intention whatsoever of staying. If he does NOT have any intention, the wise (but painful) move is to deal him. Seriously, I find it hard to believe that one of these two things does not happen.

Will GSW be able to afford his and Steph's contract next year?

Yes. They'll have Curry's bird rights.

Durant leaving, for me anyway, has reminded me of a few things. Before I spend any money on tickets, shirts, hats, time, etc., I have to ask myself if I'm comfortable doing this knowing my time and money are going to multi millionaires who play a game and have no loyalty to any organization, city, or fans.

Durant leaving, for me anyway, has reminded me of a few things. Before I spend any money on tickets, shirts, hats, time, etc., I have to ask myself if I'm comfortable doing this knowing my time and money are going to multi millionaires who play a game and have no loyalty to any organization, city, or fans.

Most things you spend money on end up going to multimillionaires who only give a damn about the money you're giving them.

EDIT: fixed typo

Well hopefully the Thunder can win at least as many NBA titles after KD's departure as they did before his departure. You'd sure hate to see them win any less.

I'm there:

You have to trade Westbrook for the best package you can get. Send him to the Lakers, for the following reasons:

1. You bring back at LEAST Ingram and a 2018 First. We don't have a 2018 First rounder.

2. This is a deep draft and without Westbrook we'll have a Top 10 pick, and players will get experience.

3. Westbrook will have the option to rejoin OKC next season under the same conditions he would have to join another team and we'll have Ingram, Dipo, Adams and the ability to trade Kanter for something valuable.

4. Westbrook will realize what a dumpster fire the LAL are right now and it will remove all doubt that OKC is the place he should close out his career. And you can sell this to him before you trade him. Tell him this is the best thing for the OKC Thunder and he has a standing offer for whatever contract he wants to write up next summer.

If it doesn't, we at least have Ingram and the ability to build moving forward.

Unless he takes the extension (which wouldn't make the difference monetarily people are thinking)

The one issue KD is overlooking is that GSW didn't pitch to him to win a title - they pitched to him to *keep* him off the biggest threat to *their* winning another title.

Think about that.

It reminds me for all the world of what ol' Switzer used to do back in the days of unlimited scholarships. He'd go recruit and sign kids he knew might never play a down for OU, but were *more* than good enough to play for someone else - like a Texas or a Nebraska. GSW just eliminated a competitor without taking so much as a dribble, and KD thinks they really wanted *him*. Sure, they "wanted" him, but a closer measure of reality is GSW didn't want him playing *anywhere*.

And I think that's precisely why other sports, such as the NFL, have the notion of a "franchise" tag - to prevent one team from poaching a critical talent from another, leaving that franchise in the state the Thunder is now in.