Shortly after Kevin Durant announced that he will be joining the Golden State Warriors, it has been heavily rumored that Russell Westbrook will turn down a contract negotiation with the Oklahoma City Thunder. And, if this happens, then there's a good chance that he will sign with another franchise.
Apparently, Durant's departure had a huge effect on Westbrook's desire to remain in OKC. Since he still has one year remaining in his contract, the Thunder will most likely try to persuade him to re-sign a new deal before he becomes a free agent.
However, of Westbrooks refuses to work out a new deal, the OKC will most likely trade him. After all, this is the only way that the team can make the most out of Westbrook before he enters the free agency market.
They surely don't want to make the same mistake with Durant. Aside from losing a very valuable player to another team, they got nothing in return because he was a free agent. So, in terms of Westbrook's status, it would be a smart move for OKC to trade him than lose him in the market. This way, they'll at least have a chance to get a reliable player or two in the process, For The Win noted.
One of the teams where Westbrook will make a good fit is the Chicago Bulls. This team recently lost its point guard after trading away Derrick Rose to the New York Knicks. Sure, the Bulls were able to replace him with Rajon Rondo from the Sacramento Kings but getting Westbrook can surely improve the team's performance for next season.
For one, Westbrook can certainly match Rondo's veteran status and experience. Also, since the former is younger than the latter by three years, the Bulls can make the most out of Westbrook by getting him to sign a long-term deal. Rondo, on the other hand, is already 30 year old. This is probably the reason why he was only given a two-year deal by the Bulls.
However, if the Bulls really want to sign Westbrook, then they should probably act fast since there are other teams that are hoping to get him.
