Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony stood side-by-side laughing, talking – two players separated by more than a thousand miles, living in dissimilar cities, but closer than anyone could understand.
Thunder players walked down the hallway at Chesapeake Energy Arena, saying final goodbyes before the All-Star break. All the New York Knicks had left for the team bus, but Anthony stuck around to chat with his friend.
Westbrook's best season as a pro will likely end without a championship. Anthony's definitely will.
The Thunder is in rebuilding mode, trying to find the ideal fit of players around Westbrook.