The 2015–16 National Basketball Association (NBA) season and this year's free agency have yet to conclude, but the rumors for the 2017 free agency period already began with Oklahoma City Thunder's Russell Westbrook.
Following this season, Westbrook still has one year left in his current contract with the Thunder before being a free agent in 2017.
By that time, Westbrook might be in the same position where his teammate and former Most Valuable Player (MVP) Kevin Durant is now, being the most coveted player available when the free agency period begins.
However, Westbrook may not end up wearing a Thunder jersey once he hits free agency in 2017.
In a report by Adrian Wojnarowski on Yahoo Sports, he stated that the Knicks might nab Westbrook from Oklahoma City. Wojnarowski mentioned that the Knicks and rookie Kristaps Porzingis have Westbrook's attention, with team president Phil Jackson planning to have an elite coaching staff to lure the explosive point guard and other free agents.
It is still uncertain what the future holds for Westbrook, with the All-Star likely not thinking about it for now since he still has a year remaining in his existing contract.
However, if Durant leaves the Thunder first this 2016, there is a chance Westbrook will end his stint in Oklahoma City as well the year after.
The 27-year-old player is already a proven star and in the times that Durant missed action because of past injuries, he showed that he can carry a team and be an MVP candidate. Westbrook is currently the second leading scorer for the Thunder (24.1 points per game) and is their leader in assists (10) and steals (2.4).
Behind Durant and Westbrook's leadership, Oklahoma City is the third best team in the Western Conference standings this season having a 39–14 record.
Next for the Thunder is a home stand versus the struggling New Orleans Pelicans this Thursday.
