Jeff Green will be eligible for a contract extension just like teammate Kevin Durant once free agency begins on Thursday at midnight.

While Durant's expected extension might be larger in value, the Oklahoman writes that Green's will have a larger bearing on the financial future of the team.

"If Oklahoma City overpays Green, the franchise's financial framework could be wrecked," writes Darnell Mayberry of the Oklahoman.  

"If the Thunder comes in too low, the team could ruin relationships or, worse, lose a key cog to what is quickly showing the makings of a soon-to-be championship-caliber squad. Avoid both and find a middle ground and Green's deal still could set a standard for the franchise's players who follow."

If Oklahoma City doesn't reach an agreement with Green by Oct. 31, he'll become a restricted free agent next summer.

"It's going to be important," Durant said. "Jeff is a real key part to our team. I really want him to stay. That's like my brother. I don't want him to leave. We've been so good together, everybody...I don't want to see anything break up over non-basketball-related things. It's going to be a tough summer for everybody, not just our team but everybody. But I think we'll stick together."