Russell Westbrook, Thunder Reportedly Agree to New Contract: Details, Reaction

Kevin Durant’s departure put the first crack in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s foundation. Now Russell Westbrook has reportedly committed himself to holding it up.

ESPN.com’s Ramona Shelburne reported Wednesday the Thunder and Westbrook “agreed in principle” to a renegotiated deal that will be signed Thursday. Shelburne added the three-year renegotiation will be worth a total of $85.7 million.

The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski confirmed the news and reported the Thunder “will likely hold a news conference on Thursday with Westbrook, owner Clay Bennett, GM Sam Presti and coach Billy Donovan.”

Earlier Wednesday, Wojnarowski reported the two sides were nearing an agreement on a three-year, $85 million contract renegotiation that will pay the point guard $26.5 million next season and $28.5 million during the 2017-18 campaign. Both Shelburne and Wojnarowski reported the third year will serve as a player option.

According to Wojnarowski, Westbrook could earn $30.6 million in 2018-19 if he doesn’t opt out of his deal and test the open market.

Westbrook, 27, spent his first eight NBA seasons in Oklahoma City. He averaged 23.5 points, 10.4 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game in 2015-16, tying the league record for triple-doubles in a season and making his fifth All-Star team.

The Thunder’s decision …

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