The OKC Thunder need to improve their offensive output and a key area toward changing their scheme is making Russell Westbrook less hesitant to play off-ball.
Let’s state the obvious. There are a substantial number of critiques concerning how Russell Westbrook runs the point guard position for the OKC Thunder. He’s had moments in his career where the media, fans, and myself have incessantly critiqued his decision making.
The Criticism:
During his time playing with Kevin Durant, he received the moniker of “ball-hog”, and then subsequently led the league in assists. Now he’s been infamously labeled a “stat-padder” at this juncture of his career. This being an implication that his stats are hollow, but having higher win percentages when he gets a triple-double proves that label to be erroneous.
How important is Russell Westbrook? When he gets a triple-double, the Thunder win at a 67-win clip.
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) March 31, 2017
When he doesn't? Just a 27-win pace. pic.twitter.com/dsPvuHdh2q
Side note: Why is there a negative connotation with being a stat-padder, but somehow a stat-sheet-stuffer is an achievement and badge of honor?
Personally, I think these critiques are rather pedestrian. Simply dismissing him as a stat-padder completely undermines the actual limitations in Westbrook’s game.
For example, I’ve harped on his shooting percentages in the past, but more importantly, his shot selection is what is holding him back from being even more dangerous than he already is.
Having a point guard who shoots under 29% from deep is limiting, but if he’s only taking open threes that percentage will undoubtedly go up.
The Point Guard
https://twitter.com/ThunderNationCP/status/1083703202149654529
Personally, I think the critiques thrown his way are rather pedestrian at best. Simply dismissing Westbrook as a stat-padder completely undermines the actual limitations in Westbrook’s game.
For example, I’ve harped on his shooting percentages in the past, but more importantly, is his shot selection. This is what is truly holding him back from being even more dangerous than he already is.
We all know how good Russell Westbrook is. His skill is undeniable. The conundrum is how can you capture that lightning in a bottle, and use it effectively?
Anyone who consistently watches his play knows how good of a facilitator Westbrook is. His vision is impeccable, but his decision making is where he’s lacking.