In a recent game between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Utah Jazz, the matchup came down to a thrilling finish with high stakes. As the game’s final moments ticked away, Russell Westbrook found himself with a game-tying attempt with 3 second left in a crucial clutch moment. Unfortunately, Westbrook’s shot attempt came up short as they lost 118-120, and Kawhi Leonard, one of the Clippers’ stars, reacted with visible frustration.
Kawhi locked up by Clarkson
Westbrook airball
CLIPPERS LMFAOOOOOOOOOOO pic.twitter.com/swPcByyGkp
— ™️_🌾 (@Sincerely_m0n) October 28, 2023
Russell Westbrook had joined the Clippers with the intention of being a key playmaker and leader, complementing the talent of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. However, there have been instances where Westbrook still takes on a hero-ball mentality, attempting to be the primary scorer in clutch situations.
In this particular game, the Utah Jazz’s Jordan Clarkson had just made a go-ahead 3-pointer, giving his team a late lead. On the ensuing possession, Kawhi Leonard attempted a tough shot that didn’t find the mark and the game ended with Westbrook’s missed attempt from 18 feet at the buzzer.
The Clippers had faced a long-standing challenge in Utah, as they hadn’t won a regular-season game in the state for 11 consecutive games. While Westbrook showcased his playmaking abilities with 9 assists, the Clippers were left disappointed with the missed opportunity. Kawhi Leonard’s visible frustration at Westbrook’s missed shot reflected the high expectations the team had for clutch moments.
Kawhi Leonard And Nicolas Batum Were Open But Russell Westbrook Ignored Them
In a crucial moment during the game between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Utah Jazz, Russell Westbrook had the ball in his hands with the opportunity to make a game-tying shot. However, a closer look at the play reveals that both Kawhi Leonard and Nicolas Batum were open on the wing, presenting better shooting options for Westbrook. Paul George was also making a move towards the corner, offering another viable option for a higher-percentage shot.
look at Kawhi when Russ shot it 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/eIc6amQcvK
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) October 28, 2023
Russell Westbrook, who is known for his playmaking abilities and his prowess in creating opportunities for his teammates, had several options to choose from and with 3 seconds left, he had enough time as well. Passing the ball to Kawhi Leonard, Nicolas Batum, or Paul George could have resulted in a higher-quality shot attempt. Unfortunately, Westbrook opted to take the shot himself, and it ultimately ended in an airball.
The Clippers, led by Paul George’s impressive 36-point performance and Kawhi Leonard’s well-rounded contributions with 25 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists, were left frustrated by the missed opportunity. Westbrook, with his 9 assists, displayed his ability to set up his teammates, but this particular play highlighted the importance of making sound decisions in clutch moments and utilizing the strengths of the team effectively.
Russell Westbrook Is Not The Star Of the Clippers
Russell Westbrook’s evolution from being the primary star on the Oklahoma City Thunder to his role on the Los Angeles Clippers highlights the changing landscape of the NBA. In his prime, Westbrook was known for his explosive athleticism, triple-double capabilities, and ability to take over games with his scoring. However, as the years have gone by, his shooting percentages have declined, making him a less reliable scoring option. In two games this season, he has averaged 7.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game, showing a reduced emphasis on scoring.
On a team like the Clippers, Westbrook finds himself alongside elite shot creators in Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. These two players are not only exceptional scorers but also have a history of making clutch shots and carrying their teams in crucial moments. With such offensive firepower at his side, Westbrook’s role as a primary scorer has diminished.
It is crucial for Westbrook to recognize this shift and prioritize setting up his talented teammates for success rather than attempting last-second shots himself. While he can still contribute with his playmaking abilities, he should defer to players like George and Leonard when the game is on the line.
The experience Westbrook gained during his time with the Lakers, where he faced criticism for shot selection and decision-making, should serve as a valuable lesson. To avoid a similar fate with the Clippers, he must embrace his role as a playmaker and support his star teammates in their quest for success.
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