Russell Westbrook's Contract Extension Details Revealed
With Kevin Durant headed to Golden State to join the uber-talented Warriors, Russell Westbrook faced quite a dilemma regarding his future. Should he stay, become the top dog for Oklahoma City and try to be the centerpiece as the Thunder tries to rebuild? Or should he bolt after next year for a franchise closer to winning a title?
Westbrook answered that question early Thursday morning - sort of.
Westbrook, according to both ESPN and Yahoo! Sports, will be signing a new three-year, $85.7 million deal to stay in Oklahoma City. But it isn't quite that simple. Westbrook's third year will be a player option, meaning he's only locked in with the franchise two years. Since he was already going to be around until 2017 anyway, this is essentially a one-year extension with the option for a two-year extension.
How To Read Russell Westbrook's New Deal
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For that, Westbrook will be given a pay increase - to $26.5 million next year and $28.5 million the year after. He'd make $30.6 million if he sticks around the third year.
So in essence, Westbrook is getting a pay raise - $8.7 million this season - for agreeing to stick around at least one more year. He can figure out the rest after the 2017-2018 season. Westbrook can buy a number of Goyard wallets now if he wants.
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Many still believe that Westbrook will eventually change cities - given his interest in promoting his own brand. But if that's going to happen, it won't be until at least two years from now.
