Markieff Morris talks new level of respect for Westbrook, free agency at OKC Thunder exit interview

Markieff Morris addressed his twins comments, the future and how his dislike for Westbrook altered into a new level of respect at the OKC Thunder exit interviews.

As the OKC Thunder players each took to the media room and podium on for exit interviews the arrival of Markieff Morris was arguably one of the most anticipated. The reason was his twin brother (Marcus) held nothing back when slamming Billy Donovan‘s usage of his brother after Markieff joined the Thunder via the buyout market. Nor was Marcus impressed by how Donovan elected to not double team Damian Lillard in the playoffs. Hey Marcus — join the rest of us!

Neither Markieff Morris or Patrick Patterson saw the floor much and the latter became nothing but a bench warmer once the team added Morris. The power forward played in 24 games with the Thunder averaging 6.5 points and 3.8 rebounds in 16.1 minutes. In the postseason his minutes and statistics regressed to 11.8 minutes where he contributed 3.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assists.

On the organization:

Despite his brother’s disdain for Donovan and the OKC Thunder Markieff spoke highly of the organization. Markieff specifically cited the players and how much he enjoyed being with the team calling it a first-class organization, with A1 teammates, training staff, coaches and said Sam Presti couldn’t have been better. You’ll note Morris cited the ‘coaching staff” not Donovan specifically.

Twin speak:

Let’s clarify something – twins have a bond which those of us who don’t simply can’t understand. Sure, we can have close relationships with our siblings, but twins seem to have this ability to share thoughts and almost simultaneously be thinking precisely the same thing at the same time. And the Morris twins aren’t typical. When Marcus renegotiated his contract in Phoenix he made sure Markieff was part and parcel and they even went as far to share the money in one account.

Suffice to say if Marcus is throwing shade at Donovan despite Markieff’s comments it’s likely it is precisely the way Kieff feels too.

Free Agency:

Again, Markieff spoke glowingly of the OKC Thunder, but he also made it clear as much as he was open to returning he would not entertain that option unless his role was different. Playing time is at the crux of this statement, however, if we cut away all the other commentary this is an indictment of Billy Donovan

On his relationship with Russell Westbrook:

Another huge takeaway from Kieff’s exit interview was his comments about Westbrook. Markieff cited how he and Russ waged war prior to him joining the Thunder and had a dislike toward each other. Once playing with Westbrook though Kieff’s opinion of the enigmatic point guard changed dramatically.

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This isn’t news for Thunder fans who’ve heard this same sentiment from previous Thunder players. Invariably, everyone (except perhaps Reggie Jackson and Kevin Durant) have always stated how great Russ is as a teammate.

Once you’re in the trenches with Westbrook witnessing how he attacks 82 games and every single possession there is almost awe from his peers. That’s a fair way to view Westbrook since you can pull out every single top level superstar and find games they’ve rested or taken off. Westbrook only knows one level and he’s received much deserved respect from his peers for it.

Granted, if Russ could find a way to be more efficient I’m sure fans would be equally happy, but there is no arguing he stands alone when it comes to superstars who play 100 percent every single game and possession.

Morris told Westbrook of his renewed respect and stated too much emphasis is placed on Westbrook’s shots instead of how hard he competes.

Moving forward, clearly what Morris decides will be affected by how creative Sam Presti can be with the Thunder salary cap and of course who is the bench boss (or what role the Thunder would envision for him). It’s doubtful at this stage Kieff would return even if promised an increased role if Billy is the guy calling the shots because he won’t trust him now.

To view Markieff’s full interview in its entirety click the video above.