NBA Trade Rumors: What Derek Fisher Could Bring to the Oklahoma City Thunder

According to published reports, Derek Fisher was spotted in Oklahoma City's Will Rogers Airport with Thunder GM Sam Presti and an entourage of other front office heavy hitters. While we can only speculate as to whether or not Fisher will appear in Thunder blue at this point, we can certainly begin to name the ways that he would be an asset to the young, yet talented Oklahoma City team. 

The Point Guard Factor

With Eric Maynor out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury, the Thunder desperately need a dependable back-up point guard that can bring balance to the aggressive Russell Westbrook. Fisher would not only provide a badly needed break for Westbrook, but would also provide the mentor he needs to lead his team to a championship. 

The Championship Warhorse

Derek Fisher may not have youth on his side anymore, but the five NBA Championship rings and the 209 career playoff games make him incredibly valuable to a possible championship-bound Thunder team. A veteran player that has the ability to make fluid decisions on the court when it counts can only balance a team of less experienced players. 

The Respected Professional 

Fisher is undoubtedly one of the most respected players in the game today. He was elected President of the NBPA in 2006 and has been a visible proponent in every major issue concerning the league since. A player that has the respect of coaches, referees and players alike is someone that a young team needs in its early years as a mentor. 

Kevin Durant told The Oklahoman on Tuesday that he was all in favor of seeing Fisher added to the Thunder lineup. 

"Derek is a consummate professional, an unbelievable leader," Durant said after a morning shoot-around. "And he played with arguably one of the greatest players to ever play in Kobe(Bryant), and Kobe really respected him as a player and wanted him on his team so that speaks volumes."

Fisher is scheduled to clear waivers at 6 p.m. ET, and perhaps then, all rumors can be put to rest.