As one of the main pieces in the James Harden swap, Kevin Martin was asked to fill some big shoes in Oklahoma City. So far this season he’s done quite well in the former Sixth Man of the Year’s slot and it’s a role that Martin can see himself playing for years to come. The guard told Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld that he wants to remain in OKC long-term.
“I get that question a lot since it’s a contract year. There are going to be teams interested over the summer, but I’m so happy right now and being with these guys has given me an extra pep in my step. It’s just fun being here. It’s a great organization and great guys. I’m happy right now,” Martin said.
Martin, 29, is averaging 15.7 PPG in 29.6 minutes while shooting 46.9% from the floor and 45.8% from beyond the arc. The guard would likely prefer to wait until the summer to discuss a new deal, as a contract extension could only cover three years while a brand new deal could go up to five years. Martin is earning $12.4MM this season.
If Monta Ellis doesn’t pull the trigger on his early termination option to leave the Bucks, Martin will be at the top prize in a soft market for shooting guards. O.J. Mayo, J.R. Smith, and Manu Ginobili are other intriguing names who could be available, as our Hoops Rumors list of 2013/14 free agents shows.