Russell Westbrook pursuit to average triple double pose a problem from Thunder. As the team have become over reliance to him and undermining other players who is able to perform better.
Westbrook has put himself in the same level with Oscar Robertson and Michael Jordan. He made his seven consecutive triple-double in the game against Houston Rockets on Friday, Nov. 9, ESPN reported. However, the Thunder was defeated 99-102 as Houston Rockets broke their six consecutive winning streak.
He posted 27 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists against the Rockets, but the Oklahoma City Thunder fell short and lost the game. Coach Billy Donovan decided to something with the rest of the player and allow Westbrook to help his team mate to perform better.
The 6’3” point guard has a very impressive play and his ferocity on court is unmatched as noted by FOX Sports. But that made the Oklahoma City Thunder become heavily reliance on Westbrook and relegate other players role which is clearly shown in the game against the Rockets.
One clear example is in Victor Oladipo. He is the player who has the ability to score and a great shooter which is capable to bring more offense for the Thunder. But when he was playing with Westbrook, the coach downgrade him as a shooter who occupies an empty spot waiting for the catch-and-shoot pass.
His field goal attempts this year were dominated with those type of play. While the shooting guard is able to help Westbrook in the back court. Especially as their opponents made Westbrook now as the target to contain him, Oladipo can alleviate the burden from Westbrook.
After losing the game against the Rockers, Thunde defeated Boston Celtics 99-96 this Sunday night Dec. 11. Westbrook’s triple double streak came to an end, but he still the biggest contributor for the team, scoring 37 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists. However, there was no change of strategy and gameplay from the coach.
Watch the seventh consecutive triple-double from Westbrook as he made 27 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists against the Rockets from the NBA official channel below:
