NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers Wants Russell Westbrook; Thunder Point Guard NOT Leaving OKC For One More Year

After Kevin Durant's departure from Oklahoma City Thunder to join Golden State Warriors for the next NBA season, all eyes are set on his previous teammate Russell Westbrook. Will the OKC point guard also leave the team?

Los Angeles Lakers Trading For Russell Westbrook

Following Kobe Bryant's retirement, Los Angeles Lakers is on the lookout for a potential player to replace the NBA all-star. According to Lakers Nation, Oklahoma's Russell Westbrook is a potential candidate.

Russell Westbrook, a former UCLA-star possess a "jaw-dropping athleticism, competitive intensity, and raw aggression" that is enough to make him Kobe Bryant's successor. With Westbrook joining the Lakers' roster, the team will rise again to its throne and be a serious threat to the NBA championship once more.

Russell Westbrook Staying With Oklahoma City Thunder

Although a number of NBA teams want to sign Russell Westbrook under their wings, it is impossible to see him wearing another jersey in the next season. Per NESN, Kevin Durant's previous teammate doesn't want OKC to trade him. However, Westbrook's future with Thunder after the next season is uncertain.

"He wants to play next season with the Thunder. It's the year after that which is in question. There's a growing belief Westbrook will think heavily about an extension but will first weigh every angle before doing it," Royce Young wrote.

Per Basketball Insider, Russell Westbrook will be an unrestricted free agent by 2017. Westbrook is a perennial All-Star and will remain one of the hottest point guards in the NBA league. Thus, his name is something to watch for next year.

However, Morning Ledger has learned that Oklahoma City Thunder wants to keep Russell Westbrook for more than a year. They want to maintain the point guard for a long-term. While reports suggest that Westbrook will only be staying until 2017, chances are high that the Thunder will keep him.

What do you think is Russell Westbrook staying with Oklahoma City Thunder in 2017 and beyond or will he change his jersey by then? If he does, in what NBA team will he likely sign up? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.