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New York Knicks: 5 Reasons to Oppose Russell Westbrook Trade

By Maurice Moton

Nov 28, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) reacts after a play against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) reacts after a play against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 23, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; With a 33 point lead against the Los Angeles Lakers , Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) and guard Russell Westbrook (0) watch game action from the bench during the fourth quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 23, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; With a 33 point lead against the Los Angeles Lakers , Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) and guard Russell Westbrook (0) watch game action from the bench during the fourth quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports /

Russell Westbrook Repelled Kevin Durant

This isn’t NBA 2K, where the human element doesn’t affect transactions. Jackson can’t just plop Westbrook on the roster, roll out the basketballs and win championships. Team chemistry matters.

According to Bleacher Report’s Howard Beck, Durant left partially due to his inability to coexist with Westbrook on the court.

"Their partnership produced four conference finals appearances, and one trip to the NBA Finals, in the last six years. It also produced a simmering frustration that, in essence, paved the way for his exit. Durant wanted an offense that kept the ball moving and provided him easier scoring chances. The Thunder fired coach Scott Brooks and brought in Billy Donovan, and still the offense stalled out at key moments, often with Westbrook dribbling into oblivion."

A talented player doesn’t always fit within a system as a complementary teammate. How would Westbrook and Anthony mesh? Like Durant or any other prolific scorer, open shots help shooting percentages and lighten the workload.

Furthermore, can the explosive guard help Porzingis develop?

In the triangle offense, players must find ways to move the ball around to find good looks at the basket. Efficiency plays a huge factor in an efficient ball-movement type system.

In particular circumstances with star players, a co-star has to want to play with you or else they’ll bolt for greener pastures, like Durant. Is Westbrook an ideal partner to lead a basketball team?

Next: Chemistry Issues?

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