In the final quarter of the game between the Nuggets and the Spurs with 5 minutes and 36 seconds remaining, Westbrook missed an open basket after receiving a back pass from Jokic under the basket. This shot was a complete airball, which led to Westbrook being ridiculed by many Spurs fans who uploaded videos of this moment.
However, with 1 minute and 47 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Westbrook hit a three-pointer after receiving a pass from Jokic outside the arc, helping the Nuggets take the lead at 107-106. Unfortunately, in the last 14 seconds, Westbrook and Jokic's pick-and-roll did not result in a successful buzzer-beater for Jokic.
Coach Malone had great trust in Westbrook, and he continued to play in overtime. In overtime, Westbrook only had one shot attempt, but he managed to grab one offensive rebound and two defensive rebounds, along with dishing out one assist. His defensive performance in overtime was particularly impressive, while Paul went scoreless in overtime, shooting 0-for-2.
In the entire game, Westbrook played for 36 minutes, shooting 4-for-11 (36.4% FG), including 1-for-4 from three-point range, scoring 9 points, 6 assists, 10 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 block, and 1 turnover. On the other hand, Paul played for 31 minutes, shooting 1-for-9 (11.1% FG), including 0-for-3 from three-point range, scoring 2 points, 8 assists, and 2 turnovers. Paul's performance was clearly inferior to Westbrook's, especially considering Paul's salary is 11million,whileWestbrook′sisonly3.3 million.
Westbrook also achieved a milestone in this game, surpassing Nuggets legend Alex English to rank 22nd in NBA history with a total of 25,614 points.
The Nuggets media wrote: "In his 17th season, Westbrook continues to have a positive impact on both ends of the court. With this victory, Westbrook has a record of 10 wins and 3 losses as a starter."
A Nuggets reporter commented: "When Russell starts, the Nuggets have a record of 10 wins and 3 losses. He once again proves himself as an excellent playmaker and versatile guard."
Article by Yan Xiaobai: A tribute to Westbrook.