Report: Russell Westbrook ‘determined’ to lead Thunder, is not available for trade

It sounds like you can pump the brakes on those Russell Westbrook trade rumors.

The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski told “The Herd” on Friday that he has heard Westbrook is embracing the challenge of leading the Oklahoma City Thunder after Kevin Durant’s departure and will not be traded.

“I like Oklahoma City’s chances to keep Russell Westbrook,” Wojnarowski said. “Anybody who would potentially trade for him would have to know he wants to re-sign with them before they would give up all those assets.

“I’ve been told Russell’s been very determined to lead the team they have, and I know this — Russell really likes the talent,” Wojnarowski added. “He loves bringing in [Victor] Oladipo, Steven Adams. Those are his guys. He thinks they’re a real talented team that, if they can add another significant piece, puts them right back in contention. I think he’s really embracing this.”

According to Wojnarowski, while it doesn’t mean Westbrook definitely won’t leave in the summer of 2017, it does mean Westbrook won’t be on the trade market anytime soon.

“They will not, in the short term here, be putting him out in trade talks,” Wojnarowski said. “I think this is going to play out over time here, and I think they’re focused on improving that team around him.”

Westbrook reportedly won’t extend his deal right now, but this sounds like good news for Thunder fans, with the caveat that we heard similar things about Durant. It has been reported in the past that a Durant departure would only make Westbrook want to stay more. It’s still going to be an edgy season for Oklahoma City, as all this is conjecture — there are still no guarantees that Westbrook will be staying beyond 2017, and perhaps things will change from their viewpoint. There are definitely some logical destinations if Oklahoma City does reconsider their position of keeping him.