Russell Westbrook re-signing with Thunder, what does it mean for Celtics?

Per Yahoo's Adrian Wojnarowski, Russell Westbrook will sign a three-year, $85 million deal (with a player option for year three) today to stay in Oklahoma City.  Westbrook confirmed his intentions via Twitter:


What does this mean for the Celtics?  Well, obviously Russ isn't going to be traded here this summer.  He's also not going to be a free agent next year, which could've been another opportunity for Boston to pursue him.  In addition, the possibility now exists that other potential 2017 free-agent targets (CSNNE's Kevin O'Connor makes a case for native Oklahoman Blake Griffin) may be interested in joining Westbrook in OKC.

Chances are, Westbrook will have a blast being the No. 1 option for the Thunder.  In the past, he's put up some absurd numbers when Kevin Durant was hurt, including a four-game triple-double streak in 2015.  In fact, he's already the leading candidate for league MVP next season:


However, Oklahoma City also missed the playoffs in 2014-15 when Durant played only 27 games.  This Westbrook-led incarnation of the Thunder might not be very good.  It's possible (not likely, but possible) things could turn ugly.


Six months from now is just before the trade deadline, and with his new contract Westbrook's market value has increased significantly...




Follow Mark Van Deusen on Twitter @LucidSportsFan
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