The Oklahoma City Thunder went from being one win away from competing in the NBA Finals to a possible franchise rebuild in one month’s time. Kevin Durant decided that “if you cannot beat them, then join them”. He agreed to a two-year contract with the Golden State Warriors. This move has caused the Thunder’s other superstar to become noncommittal about his own future. Russell Westbrook has one year left on his current contract. He would become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career.
According to multiple sources, Westbrook will not sign an extension to stay with the Thunder until the 2016-17 season is over. This has prompted many in the NBA world to suggest that Oklahoma City should trade Westbrook. That would be better than losing him in free agency for nothing like they did with Durant. One of the teams linked to acquiring Westbrook are the New York Knicks of course.
History has shown New York that they should not trade for Russell Westbrook.
Why a Russell Westbrook Trade is a Mistake for the New York Knicks
During the 2010-11 season Carmelo Anthony made it clear to his then team the Denver Nuggets that he would not be re-signing with them following the season. Anthony had made it known that he wanted to play in New York City, and the Knicks, most notably owner James Dolan, were willing to do almost anything to add a superstar. Instead of waiting until free agency they sent a handful of roster players and a couple of future first round draft picks to Denver for Anthony. Fast forward six years and Oklahoma City may be looking for that same type of compensation for Westbrook.
Any deal that included the Knicks though will almost certainly be centered around second-year phenom Kristaps Porzingis. The Knicks would be better off just hanging up the phone at that point in the conversation. Porzingis finished second last year in the Rookie of the Year voting. He averaged 14.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game.
Looming Free Agency
In order for New York to make a run at Westbrook they need to do it in free agency. The way their roster is set up makes this a possibility. Newly acquired Derrick Rose and Brandon Jennings are the point guards on the roster. Both of their contracts come off the books after the 2016-17 season. That alone will free up over $26 million. The salary cap is estimated to increase after this year. The Knicks would be in position to offer Westbrook a four-year maximum contract. And honestly, if Westbrook is going to sign a multi-year deal with New York it will be to play with Porzingis, not after he was traded for him.
All this means is that the Knicks should not trade for Russell Westbrook. Rumors will be swirling around Westbrook all season, at least until he is either traded or signs an extension. Every Knicks fan better hope that the New York front office does not forget history. Because those that do are doomed to repeat it.
