Kevin Durant has fueled speculation about a potential Russell Westbrook comeback, stating his former Oklahoma City Thunder teammate could still play for several more years. Durant made the comments during media availability in Houston, just as the Thunder wrapped up a back-to-back preseason set with games on October 6 and 7. The team fell 110-116 to the New Orleans Pelicans before a narrow 126-128 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Speaking at the NBA China Games 2026 event with the Dallas Mavericks, Durant shared his thoughts on Westbrook's recent retirement. He expressed a belief that Westbrook's athleticism could still help a team. "I was a little sad because I still thought Russ had five or six more years left," Durant said. "He's an athletic body that can still impact the game positively."
Durant also acknowledged Westbrook's personal choice to move on. He noted that sometimes players reach a point where they want to step away. The Phoenix Suns star then congratulated Westbrook on an "iconic career," confident he would apply his famous work ethic to his next chapter.
Talk of a return started shortly after Westbrook's sudden retirement announcement in August. Former NBA All-Star Zach Randolph added to it on the Out the Mud podcast. Randolph said he spoke with Westbrook's brother, Raynard, and hinted the 37-year-old guard "might be back" because he still has plenty to offer.
Randolph specifically mentioned the Miami Heat as a possible fit where Westbrook could contribute to a playoff team. Last season with the Sacramento Kings, Westbrook averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game. He walked away after reportedly turning down reduced bench roles. So far, Westbrook himself has not indicated any plans to reverse his retirement decision.
Shortly after the news broke, Durant posted a lengthy, heartfelt tribute online. He recalled their shared history with the Thunder, including their NBA Finals run in their early twenties. Durant highlighted Westbrook's legendary work ethic, recounting how he often completed his workouts before others even arrived at the gym.
"A lot of people looked at the emotions on the court and thought Russ was loud, nah to me, he was quiet and methodical," Durant wrote. He described Westbrook as someone who led by example and played with pure freedom when the lights were brightest. The post celebrated their shared experiences, from injuries and comebacks to bus rides and card games.
The Thunder's immediate focus is on their final preseason preparations. After the consecutive losses to the Pelicans and Bucks, the team now looks ahead to its next fixture. They travel to face the Atlanta Hawks on October 12 in their last tune-up before the regular season tips off.
While the past is remembered fondly, the current roster is building its own identity. The close preseason games show a team competing hard, working to integrate new pieces and refine its systems. The story of Westbrook and Durant remains a sacred part of Thunder history, but a new chapter is being written on the court.
