Westbrook leads Thunder to victory over Leonard-less Spurs: 3 takeaways

The explosive OKC star, though, found ample support in ending the Spurs nine-game win run, even with well-rested San Antonio gunners Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge on the floor. Yet there really is much more to National Basketball Association success than statistical stunts like the triple-doubles, or even the scoring crown, which Westbrook is also in position to claim.

Westbrook is of course tracking to become the first player to average a triple-double for a full season since Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson did it 55 years ago.

With 18 regular-season games to go, all Westbrook has to do is post 11 more triple-doubles. Golden State only has a two-game lead over the Spurs in the standings and their matchup on Saturday is a big one just in case a tiebreaker will be needed at the end of the season.

San Antonio’s point guard Tony Parker is questionable for the contest with back stiffness. The San Antonio Spurs have won seven straight home games.

The Spurs are 1-0 this season against the Thunder, having beaten them 108-94 in San Antonio. “If we come out tonight and lose this one, it would be a tough blow”. On the other hand, there’s an argument that the Thunder depend on Westbrook playing well more than any other team depends on its superstar. They have recently lost their franchise player in DeMarcus Cousins and are now fully focused on rebuilding for the future, acquiring young talents in exchange.

In Oakland, California, Isaiah Thomas scored 25 points as the Boston Celtics beat Golden State 99-86 on Wednesday night, spoiling the Warriors’ lone home game in a almost three-week span.

Leonard averaged 33.8 points in 39.3 minutes in those four games.

Leonard’s recent play had pushed him into the MVP conversation and the way he leads by example with his play has made the team around him better.

“I think it’s astounding”, he said. “You’ve got to give them credit, that’s what they’re known for”.

That’s pretty convincing and is a stark contrast, showing exactly how much the Thunder count on Westbrook to deliver on a nightly basis. He’s a really singularly unique bundle of energy and competitiveness for sure. I’m happy for him.