Heading into the 2017-18 NBA season, one of the storylines that have gone under the radar is Russell Westbrook's future with the Oklahoma City Thunder. With an opportunity to sign a five-year, $207 million deal nearly two months ago, Westbrook has not committed to the new designated veteran player extension.

According to Royce Young of ESPN, the league's Most Valuable Player has not delivered an official answer to the Thunder leading up to the new season:

According to sources with knowledge of the situation, Westbrook hasn't delivered an official answer — either a yes or a no.

In addition, Young reveals why Westbrook may be waiting to sign the extension:

The primary difference, and it could be key, is the years. The rules of the designated player extension stipulate a minimum of five years (with only a player option available for Year 5). Signing that deal would put Westbrook under contract until he's 34 years old. If he waited until next summer, he could sign a two- or three-year deal, and hit free agency again at 31 or 32.

Unlike James Harden and John Wall who both signed their extensions, Westbrook has remained relatively quiet during the offseason. After averaging a triple-double and leading Oklahoma City to a 47-35 record in their first season without Kevin Durant, he has an opportunity to become the highest paid player in league history.

After being considered a one-man team, the Thunder acquired Paul George from the Indiana Pacers in exchange for Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis. With another All-Star forward in the mix, it will be interesting to see if George's arrival influences Westbrook.

Although George was traded to the Thunder, he becomes an unrestricted free agent next year and it is no secret he wants to play for his hometown Los Angeles Lakers.