Shortly after the 2012 NBA Finals, there seemed to be a feeling that the Oklahoma City Thunder were up next. Led by a young core of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden, the Thunder had three future stars still in the early stages of career, with plenty of room for growth.
It never happened.
Although Oklahoma City had their share of successes, they have yet to make it back to the NBA Finals. Harden was traded to the Houston Rockets in one of the most lopsided deals in NBA history.
Both Durant and Westbrook sustained critical injuries that dampened the Thunder's playoff chances throughout the years. And after the team blew a 3-1 lead against the Golden State Warriors in the 2016 Western Conference Finals, Durant would leave to join Golden State in free agency.
Subsequent playoff frustrations have frustrated Westbrook. After a second straight first-round exit, he reportedly has been voicing his displeasure, according to Marc Spears of The Undefeated:
According to sources, since George, Westbrook and the Thunder suffered a disappointing first-round exit in the playoffs in April, Westbrook has been quietly grumbling about the team’s struggles and may want out. George, meanwhile, beat him to the punch. George asked his agent, Aaron Mintz, to tell Thunder general manager Sam Presti not only that was he requesting a trade but also that he wanted to join forces with Leonard, sources said.
Paul George's departure to the Los Angeles Clippers may be the straw that breaks the camel's back. He had signed a multi-year deal with the Thunder last summer and professed his faith in a partnership with Westbrook.
But the Thunder — once agin — were exposed for their lack of perimeter shooting, and they were totally handicapped by the luxury tax this offseason.
When all is said and done, Russell Westbrook — the final remnant of that 2012 squad — may be headed out the door.
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