(SP) – Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook addressed his team’s acquisition of All-Star Paul George for the first time today, expressing that he believes the duo can “do some damage” in the Western Conference. The reigning NBA MVP also stated that he reserves the right to change his mind about George should he leave Oklahoma City in a year as a free agent “like a goddam coward.”
“I talked to Paul and he said he’s excited to be a part of the Thunder,” said Westbrook. “That’s pretty cool. But that said, I knew someone once who also said he wanted to be a part of the Thunder, and then he decided to leave an go win a fake title. So I’ve learned to take these things with a grain of salt. I guess it’s up to Paul to see if he’s a man of his word or not in a year.”
George confirmed he spoke to Westbrook a few days ago.
“It went … well. Yeah,” said the former Indiana Pacer. “I mean, Russ threatened to have me killed if I ever leave, which wasn’t my favorite part of the conversation. However, he said that if I don’t leave, I have his protection. So at least I have options. I’m really scared, but I hope it will be okay.”
Westbrook would not confirm that he was alluding to former teammate Kevin Durant in his comments about a former teammate who bailed on him.
“I never said his name,” said Westbrook. “But it’s interesting that I mention a coward and people just instantly go to Kevin. That’s very interesting. I guess that’s the legacy he’s built for himself out there with his new friends in Oakland.”
