Nipsey Night: OKC Thunder guard Russell Westbrook posts double-triple-double

Shifting to the negative

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Once the Thunder took a 16-point lead with roughly one-minute remaining, head coach, Billy Donovan began to empty his bench. Naturally, his first substitution was going to be inserting Hamidou Diallo for Russ, so he could receive a standing ovation from the remaining crowd.

The problem was, Russ still needed two rebounds for his 20-20-20 stat line. Therefore, he waved off coach Donovan. In any other situation, it would have been wrong to wave off your coach. However, due to the circumstances, what Russ did is understandable, but still unacceptable. If it happens again, Westbrook should be criticized for his action.

With that said, Donovan should have known the circumstances and left Russ in the game to achieve his goal. During his postgame interview, the Thunder head coach shared that Russ approached him after the fact and explained his actions.

Closing Thoughts

Westbrook’s performance was both exceptional and memorable. When most spectators were likely disappointed LeBron James was not in uniform, Russ provided the fortunate attendees inside the Peake a remarkable night.

Lost in the shuffle, the Thunder picked up a much-needed victory over the skeleton crew Lakers. Considering, the Spurs visit the Nuggets tonight, Oklahoma City may move into seventh place before they resume play on Friday.

All in all, Westbrook reminded the NBA why he is still regarded as a superstar, and while doing so, he honored his late friend by dedicating his achievement to Nipsey himself.