Is OKC Thunder superstar Russell Westbrook on the back end of his career?
Assists by era
Moving on, we’ll look at how Russell Westbrook’s assist statistics have changed through each era.
Kevin Durant era
Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 5/14/2019.
Upon examining Westbrook’s yearly assist production during the Durant era it is apparent he was a bit inconsistent. Though there are no standout statistics on either end of the spectrum, Westbrook at least showed fleeting moments of what he is capable of if given the opportunity to operate at his full potential.
Solo star era
| Season | AST |
|---|---|
| 2016-17 | 10.4 |
Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 5/14/2019.
Of course, we all know Westbrook’s season as the solo star on the team was the year in which he played with a vengeance and displayed what he can do when given free reign to play as he pleases. He tied his per game assists total with 10.4 and went on to prove he is more than a slasher in the paint by getting his teammates more involved as well.
As a result, the OKC Thunder made it to the playoff with a respectable 47-35 record. Sure, they lost in the first round, but it was still an impressive accomplishment considering the team lost a huge contributor in Kevin Durant during the preceding free agency period.
Paul George era
Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 5/14/2019.
When OKC added Paul George to the mix there were concerns Westbrook wouldn’t be able to continue playing at such a high level with a new talent on the roster capable of taking over. Turns out, Westbrook never skipped a beat as he maintained his per game assist totals. Then again, this shouldn’t be that surprising as all he has to do is find Paul George when he’s open and let him drain a few buckets on his assists.
The trend
Though Russell Westbrook appears to have plateaued in his per game assists production, he has not declined by any means. The man many still consider to be a ball hog continues to be quite successful at finding his open teammates to get them involved as well.