Today’s OKC Thunder and Their Historic NBA Counterparts

#2 – Current Thunder Player – Russell Westbrook

David’s Historic Counterpart – Michael Jordan

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While everyone is arguing whether LeBron James will ever match up to Michael Jordan, they’re overlooking a far-more obvious comparison to Russell Westbrook. Ignored in the constant devotion to Jordan’s six rings is the fact that many critics despised Jordan’s skill set and thought him to be a greedy stat-stuffer that would never win in the NBA.

That kind of criticism sounds all-too-familiar to what Thunder fans have heard during Westbrook’s career, particularly during this past MVP-worthy season. The statistics don’t quite add up but I can’t help but think how both these players use incomparable levels of athleticism to excel in their respective positions. Jordan’s early years were a study in absolute dominance; teammates and opponents alike were playing at slower speeds and simply bore witness to his incredible abilities. Similarly, Westbrook simply exists at his own level (#LetWestbrookBeWestbrook), one that doesn’t fit into molds of either point or shooting guard. And if Jordan’s championship success is the unfortunate barometer which all other players are measured by, there’s still time for Westbrook to win a title.

More importantly, they both serve as reminders that brilliant, unparalleled athleticism is sometimes more enjoyable to watch than mere wins.

Next: #1 - The Incomparable Scorer