With Kevin Durant's departure in the free agency, the Oklahoma City Thunder is now looking for an all-star caliber small forward to replace him. As the NBA 2016-2017 season started, a lot of teams have made blockbuster deals which put the Thunder's mark as top dog in the league at stake. Now, the Thunder is in this season's picture of NBA rumors 2016 and it appears that they are looking to acquire Paul George to bolster their roster.

In a report by Inquisitr, the Thunder are rumored to be negotiating a deal with Indiana that would send Enes Kanter and Andre Roberson to Indiana in exchange for Paul George. The Pacers seem to be in a rebuilding process right now and acquiring young players might just do the trick. On the other hand, the Thunder could definitely need George's all-star presence if they want to remain a top contender in the western conference.

These two teams that are involved in the NBA rumors 2016 might pursue the deal since it would be a legal transaction according to ESPN NBA trade machine. There would be no issues regarding salary cap space.

The Thunder lost to the Warriors in the playoffs last season blowing a 3-1 lead and losing Kevin Durant to the Warriors is like adding insult to injury. Now, there seems to be a rivalry between both teams and with the Thunder losing to the Warriors in their first meeting this season, acquiring Paul George is the best replacement for the small-forward position.

But in a report by Chatt Sports Net, Pacers president Larry Bird wants to rebuild his team around George and he may need a lot of convincing. The Thunder may need to offer a really good deal for Bird to let George go.

There is really a lot of controversy in this season's NBA rumors 2016 which is why the NBA is must watch this year.