Jonathan Abrams: Thunder would have won NBA title if they had kept Durant, Westbrook and Harden together

Sports journalist Jonathan Abrams has penned a new book, "When We Were Young and Fearless: Kevin, Russell, James, and the Making of the Modern NBA," which delves into the rise and fall of the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder. Abrams argues that the team could have won an NBA title if they had kept together their trio of superstars - Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden.

Abrams' fascination with the trio's story stems from the unique circumstances of their arrival in Oklahoma City. He notes that the league was transitioning from a small, isolated entity to one where players were becoming brands. Durant joined the Thunder in 2007, followed by Westbrook in 2008 and James Harden in 2012. These stars, with their distinct playing styles and personalities, created a formidable combination that could have led to championship success.

ABRAMS adds, "The leap forward in the mid-2000s was remarkable. The league matured, and these three players came together at a pivotal time." However, Abrams' book also explores how the players' personal lives and public personas differed from their on-court performances. While Durant and Harden have been open about their personalities, Russell Westbrook remained relatively private.

Speaking to Abrams' book, one reader remarked that they had a much deeper appreciation for Westbrook's journey after reading it. Abrams' work reveals that the three players had different motivations, with championships potentially taking a back seat to their aspirations of maximizing their careers and building generational wealth.

Abrams also reflects on how the nature of the game has evolved. As a child, he imagined athletes like Michael Jordan or Magic Johnson staying with their teams forever, winning championships. In contrast, today's players are more focused on individual success and brand building. Even so, Abrams emphasizes that understanding basketball is no longer just a hobby but a way of life for many players.