After an unsuccessful run with the Los Angeles Lakers, Russell Westbrook found himself on the open market. The former NBA MVP opted not to go far, signing with the Clippers.
During his short run with the Clippers, Westbrook managed to turn some heads with his impressive play. Many had written him off at this stage of his career, but he proved he still had something left in the tank.
Westbrook came up big for his new team when the postseason rolled around. With Kawhi Leonard and Paul George both out, it was on him to lead the charge against the Phoenix Suns. In those five games, he averaged 23.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists.
Part of why Westbrook chose the Clippers is because of his connection to one of the team’s stars. Paul George had a good run with him in OKC and wanted to reunite on the Clippers.
During a recent episode of his “Podcast P” podcast, George opened up on the play of Westbrook this season. He applauded him for coming up big for the team and being willing to change his role depending on the situation.
“He delivered,” George said. “There was a reason I was willing to stick my neck out and vouch for him. He delivered. He came and was an unbelievable locker room guy, great energy, great leader and I think what [Lawrence Frank] loved most about bringing him in, was he was just very adaptable.
“His role changed when we first got him, with myself and Kawhi out there, to when I went down and it was just him and Kawhi, to when Kawhi went down and it was just him.”
Following this season, Westbrook will become an unrestricted free agent once again. That being said, the Clippers might be looking to continue their partnership going forward. Along with his relationship with George, Westbrook might have earned himself another contract with his play on the court.
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