It’s crazy to think that Russell Westbrook and James Harden were teammates just two seasons ago. The former Rockets duo went their separate ways last year, with Russ joining the Wizards, and Harden going to Brooklyn. Since then, Russ has found his way to the Lakers. But both are actually putting up similar numbers this season.
Russell Westbrook and James Harden are almost mirroring each other when it comes to their stats so far. Russ is averaging 20.3 points, 8 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game while shooting 44.6% from the field and 32% from the three-point line for the season at the time of this writing.
As for Harden, he has just slightly been averaging more than Russ with 20.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, 9.5 assists, while shooting 40.3% from the field, and 34.7% from the three-point line. Harden leads Westbrook in points, assists, and three-point percentage, whereas Russ is ahead in rebounds and field goal percentage.
One thing that does come as a surprise is the fact that Harden is actually leading Westbrook for turnovers, but just barely. Harden is averaging 4.8 turnovers per game, whereas Westbrook is averaging 4.6 turnovers per game. Both players will be looking to bring that average lower going forward.
The difference between the two players is marginal, and neither has a significant advantage in any aspect. Both players have been having a slightly rough start to the season so far. But they both are seemingly turning the corner, as their individual performances over the last few games have been much better.
Prior to the start of the season, the Lakers and the Nets were expected to reach the NBA Finals. But both Harden and Russ have not stepped up enough to warrant those championship aspirations. It will take a lot of effort from both players to help their teams reach their destination, especially with the way they are playing now.
