NBA Rumors: Westbrook Could Recall MVP Form If He Joins The Knicks

There was a time when Russell Westbrook proved he could lead a team by himself. This was when Kevin Durant opted to join the Golden State Warriors in 2016. After that, the real Westbrook just exploded and his performance netted him the 2017 NBA Most Valuable Player award.

That was also the year that the fourth overall pick of the 2008 NBA Draft went ballistic, proving to everyone he could do almost anything. His efforts were enough to help the Thunder to the playoffs but surviving only in the first round. Support was a big question mark then but he could get that if he transfers to the right team.

With the Houston Rockets undergoing a major overhaul, Westbrook could be one player that they may try to deal away. The 31-year-old guard has three years left in his $130 million deal and part of Houston's plans may be to take in needed players. Most know how the small-ball approach of Mike D'Antoni faltered, meaning the Rockets could be out to get a big man to play the center slot.

Despite reuniting with James Harden at Houston, the pair failed to make it work. Harden is likely to be kept but Westbrook could be on the move. According to SNy's Ian Begley, the New York Knicks could look into acquiring Westbrook - a move that would make sense.

Most know that the Knicks are in search of a veteran guard who can lead the team. New York is oozing with potential led by the likes of RJ Barrett, Mitchell Robinson and more. New head coach Tom Thibodeau could be interested in acquiring Westbrook and making him the new face of the franchise. Hence, Westbrook could have the chance to be the star of the show once more and lead the Knicks to the playoffs once more.

Looking at his performance last season, Westbrook played in 57 games averaging 27.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 7.0 assists in 35.9 minutes of action. These were a far cry from his averages in his MVP year where he normed 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds and 10.4 assists per Basketball-Reference.

But the reason behind that is simple - he was sharing the limelight with Harden. If he recalls that old form and brings it to Gotham, one can only wonder how the Knicks could undergo a big transformation and likely make the playoffs. Before thinking ahead, the Rockets still need to figure out what to do with the 6-foot-3 guard.