The NBA is no stranger to high-profile breakups. From Shaq and Kobe to LeBron and Cleveland, fans have witnessed their favorite players leave their teams for greener pastures. However, few departures have been as tumultuous and controversial as Kevin Durant’s exit from the Oklahoma City Thunder.
In 2016, the news of Durant signing with the Golden State Warriors sent shockwaves throughout the league. It wasn’t just that he left OKC after nine successful seasons, but it was the way he did it. The once-beloved superstar was now looked at as a traitor by many Thunder fans, and the relationship between Durant and the city of Oklahoma has been strained ever since.
Years later, emotions are still raw, and people hold very strong opinions about Durant’s departure. One person who has not shied away from expressing his feelings is Russell Westbrook, Durant’s former teammate and the current face of the Thunder franchise.
Westbrook recently sat down for an interview with The Cold Wire, where he opened up about Durant’s exit and its impact on the team. Despite their friendship and past success together, it’s clear that Westbrook is still hurt by Durant’s decision to join forces with the Warriors.
“I can’t sugarcoat it. Losing Kevin was a tough blow for our team. It’s not just about his talent and what he brought to the court, but his presence in the locker room and his chemistry with the team,” Westbrook said.
Durant and Westbrook were considered one of the best duos in the league, and their partnership led the Thunder to multiple playoff appearances and an NBA Finals appearance in 2012. However, things changed when Durant chose to leave for the Warriors, and Westbrook was left to lead the team on his own.
“It was tough to see him go, but I had to respect his decision. We had a great run together, and I have nothing but love and respect for him as a player and as a friend,” Westbrook shared.
Even though the two friends have since mended their relationship, their time together in OKC will always be overshadowed by Durant’s departure. Some fans continue to hold a grudge against the forward, while others have accepted his decision and moved on. However, for Westbrook, the wound is still fresh, and he admits that it has affected his game.
“I can’t deny that it affected me. Losing a teammate and friend like Kevin was tough. But I’ve grown from it, and I continue to use it as motivation to push myself and my team to be the best we can be,” Westbrook said with determination.
Since Durant’s departure, Westbrook has been the driving force behind OKC’s success. He has become the face of the franchise and has solidified his status as one of the best players in the league. However, it’s evident that he still feels the void left by Durant’s absence.
Despite the drama and heartbreak surrounding Durant’s exit, Westbrook remains positive and focused on the future. He believes that the Thunder have the talent and determination to overcome any challenges and continue to compete at the highest level.
“We have a great group of guys, and we’re all pushing each other to be better every day. We have what it takes to compete with any team in the league, and we’re going to keep fighting until we bring a championship to Oklahoma,” Westbrook confidently stated.
In conclusion, the breakup between Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder may have been one of the messiest in NBA history, but it’s a testament to the strong bonds and emotions that exist within the league. Years later, the wound may still be fresh, but for Russell Westbrook and the Thunder, it’s time to focus on the present and the future, and with determination and resilience, anything is possible.
