OKC Thunder star Russell Westbrook made two major adjustments and its paying dividends

Defensive Effort

Wesbrook has been routinely scrutinized for his lack of defensive consistency, often caught ball watching and playing off his defensive assignments. Russ is a solid defender when dialed in however, he’s simply placed greater emphasis on offense in recent years largely due to the Thunder’s lack of offensive punch since Kevin Durant‘s departure.

This year, Russ has made a concerted effort on defense. He is closing out on defensive assignments, contesting shots, attacking passing lanes, accumulating steals and blocking shots at the rim.

The video’s below some of Russ’ defensive work this season.

Against the Phoenix Suns, the Brodie stays with Suns forward Josh Jackson despite going around two screens on the perimeter. Schroder needlessly rotates over as Westbrook had him covered all the way.

Russ makes a terrific block, rotating over on Shai Gigeous-Alexander after the Clippers guard blows by Patrick Patterson.

In their latestt outing, Westbrook shows great shot clock awareness and attacks Hornets guard Malik Monk from the weak side to steal the ball for a dunk.

Russ maybe stuck in the middle of the pack in defensive rating on his own squad but its been a tough start to the campaign. Adams, PG13 and Russ all rank 8th, 9th and 10th in defensive rating on the team with Nerlens Noel, Raymond Felton and Alex Abrines leading the way.

As the season progresses, this order is likely to change and Russ will move up in the teams defensive hierarchy. If Westbrook maintains his defensive focus, the Thunder will be a top defensive team throughout the season.