Russell Westbrook isn’t talking about Kevin Durant’s departure from an OKC Thunder team that was a heartbeat away from NBA Finals glory. Westbrook just laughs (see below) when inquiring minds — who all want to know — ask what he thinks. Does he feel abandoned? Betrayed? Man, this is Russell Westbook, one of the greatest pure athletes on the planet — a guy that can get a triple-double while making you brunch. He’s ready with or without KD, who — come to think of it — took too many shots anyway…
[NBA: Thunder’s Steven Adams Is Youngest of 18 Children]
Las Vegas offers some evidence about how good Westbrook and the rest of his Thunder teammates under second-year coach Billy Donovan still are. They added Victor Olapido and they’re ready to challenge in the West. Sure, the Warriors adding Durant to an already record-breaking lineup makes them prohibitive preseason favorites to win the title. But Vegas oddsmakers didn’t exactly watch the Thunder’s chances collapse when Durant left for the West Coast. There remain only five teams (Warriors, Cavs, Spurs, Celtics and Clippers) who are bigger favorites to be crowned 2017 NBA Champions. And if you cash in the giant chip that’s now sitting on the Thunder’s shoulders? Then the bet, at 75/1, looks pretty good. Odds are Russell Westbrook will have a lot more laughs this year.
