Why OKC Thunder fans never lost faith Russell Westbrook would sign extension
True fans of the OKC Thunder felt in their guts Russell Westbrook would sign the extension. Perhaps it was too much reliance on feeling as opposed to fact, but looking back Westbrook’s decision isn’t that surprising.
On the heals of Russell Westbrook agreeing to the 5-year $205 million extension Thunder fans feel confident about the coming season and beyond, if not a tad delirious. With the extension Westbrook overtakes the top position as the highest paid NBA player in history. Russ will now earn $233 million over the next six seasons taking him through to the end of the 2022-23 season assuming he doesn’t opt out of his final season.
Westbrook has the biggest total contract in NBA history -- six years, $233M. Westbrook agent Thad Foucher and GM Sam Presti finalized today.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 29, 2017
Fans of the OKC Thunder can exhale since Russell Westbrook did what many said he wouldn’t. All summer Thunder Nation endured copious Lakers related articles proclaiming the Brodie would be headed to LA next summer. Pundits, analysts and NBA former players seemingly felt Westbrook’s lack of rushing to sign his extension spelled the end.
Well, not all pundits. If you’re a regular reader of Thunderous Intentions you know I’ve long maintained the position Russell Westbrook would return. It simply made zero sense for him to leave. First of all, he’s consistently said OKC is where he wants to be. Still, it’s understandable if some in Thunder Nation were a little worried.