OKC Thunder In the news Russell Westbrook edition: season review, surgery, critics and retail therapy

OKC Thunder In the news dedicates this edition to Russell Westbrook diving into his season review, recent surgery, offseason focus, his critics and retail therapy.

Although the OKC Thunder aren’t playing Russell Westbrook remains in the news. So much so, T.I. elected to dedicate the Saturday, May 11th In the news edition completely to the Brodie.

Westbrook’s season in review:

T.I. scribe Noah Schulte dives into the enigma that is Russell Westbrook. With so many analysts and pundits pointing fingers at Russ, this review presented a tough provocation.

Schulte’s challenge was to examine each side of the equation examining both the qualities which made Westbrook a three time triple-double season master and carrying the squad when Paul George got hurt. And, it required an unbiased look at the areas of Westbrook’s game which necessitate tweaks or changes.

"The numbers will unequivocally tell you that he is a deeply flawed superstar whose inefficiency this year was historic. His out-of-control drives and incomprehensible shot selection made him seem like one of the worst players you’ve ever seen.What’s more, his decision-making in close games regularly cost the Thunder wins. Everything about him, this year, in particular, screams fraud. But to evaluate him on this basis is to miss the value of Westbrook."

Of surgeries and aging:

Adding fuel to the Westbrook naysayers is the news he underwent yet another knee procedure. This following the worst shooting season of his career and early playoff oust. It was termed a minor surgical procedure or what Adrian Wojnarowski tweeted in quotations: “proactive maintenance” on his right knee. First of all, can we all agree calling any surgery minor is an oxymoron?

This is the third time Russ has addressed his right knee although ample time passed since the first operation ( the torn meniscus thanks to pal Patrick Beverley). Westbrook has endured procedures on his left knee but it wasn’t until preseason and now this offseason the right knee was readdressed.

Clearly, pundits comments and the concern from the fanbase lies in whether this superstar can be as effective if his greatest asset (speed, scoring at the basket, pushing pace) become even remotely diminished. How will continuous knee procedures and the natural aging process affect those advantages? This no doubt will be an ongoing debate, especially in his super max contract years.

The Brodie Debate:

As Thunder fans what we do know is the minute Russell Westbrook became a professional basketball player he has delighted in proving his critics wrong. And in fairness, Westbrook is viewed differently than his counterparts (case in point – check out the tweet below).

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• Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder

This offseason, however, the Brodie has more than ample inspiration to address his criticism. Three consecutive first round exits, getting out played by Damian “the shot” Lillard and punctuating it with the humility of his Game 3 bravado won’t sit well over the long summer months.

Critics of Westbrook expect continual regression and a stubborn commitment to not changing. Proponents of the star will take the opposing view and believe this combination of events will lead to him taking another step.

Personally, I wouldn’t put anything past Russell given his drive. Having said that, Russ’ ascension can’t be accomplished all on his own. Sam Presti has to factor by either insisting Donovan implement an offense with versatility (or hire a coach who will – insert check mark here). And, Presti has to take cues from the Bucks who’ve surrounded Giannis Antetokounmpo with assets who can score (especially from the perimeter).

Westbrook and Mountain Dew Retail Therapy:

Finally, to send you off with something positive, Westbrook took over for Oklahoma City, Zeal store owner Micah T. John.

The double take by the first lady who enters is hilarious.

That’s it for this Westbrook focused In the news segment. Enjoy your weekend and make sure to visit Thunderous Intentions daily as we serve up hot takes and analysis on your favorite team and players.