Russell Westbrook has received a lot of criticism and slander over the last couple of years. A lot of it came when he was part of the Los Angeles Lakers, but things have been better since he moved across town. And he was excellent for his new team in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series against the Phoenix Suns.
Russell Westbrook played an incredible all-around game in the Los Angeles Clippers Game 1 win. He shot poorly, just 3-19 from the field, but he did everything else, grabbing boards, dishing out assists, and defending well. And one stat from that game is quite mind-blowing.
“The NBA’s matchup data says Russell Westbrook defended Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Chris Paul for 59 combined possessions last game… In those possessions, they combined for just 6 points on 25% from the field.”
The NBA’s matchup data says Russell Westbrook defended Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Chris Paul for 59 combined possessions last game…
In those possession, they combined for just 6 points on 25% from the field. pic.twitter.com/ztab8ELZn3
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) April 17, 2023
Those numbers are incredible, considering that Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Chris Paul are all among the most efficient players in the NBA. They tend to shoot incredibly well, but they had no answer for Westbrook’s defense in that game. He may not have scored a lot of points, but he was an extremely effective second star alongside Kawhi Leonard in the absence of Paul George.
Russell Westbrook Is Committed To Doing Everything He Can Even Outside Of Scoring To Help The Clippers Win
There are few things better than seeing Russell Westbrook do well. Russ is a passionate player who leaves it all on the floor and someone that has been disrespected way too much. Making shots is important, and he isn’t very efficient, but he has reiterated his commitment to doing whatever it takes to help his team win.
“My whole career, I’ve been priding myself every season to do everything. I think I’m one of those guys that can do everything each and every night. Whatever’s needed of me to win the game, to win the game, I’ll do it. I am just grateful that T-Lue and the staff believe in me that even when my shot isn’t falling, they’ll allow me to be in the game.”
Russell Westbrook has the trust of his teammates, and Kawhi Leonard has spoken very positively of him after their Game 1 win. And he has a chip on his shoulder too, there is something left for Westbrook to prove. He will need to continue to play well if the Clippers are to have a chance of winning this series against the Phoenix Suns.
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