OKC Thunder Roundtable sessions: Homage to Russell Westbrook
Tamberlyn Richardson:
Statistically, both Westbrook and Durant own records, each won a regular season MVP and Russell has the three consecutive seasons averaging a triple-double. When KD departed the fanbase was shocked so Westbrook signing his extension the same summer helped erase the pain of that defection while also making fans feel they could retain hope for the future.
I equate this choice to a similar situation with Kyle Lowry in Toronto. Lowry is the heart, soul, glue, and essence of the Raptors. I’ve lost count of how many times he has orchestrated a comeback, stopped an opponent’s run or be the catalyst to a young player succeeding. Although Kawhi Leonard was the superstar it is Lowry whose jersey will be raised first.
Likewise, Westbrook is that player for the Thunder. When I reflect back on the most successful era and moments it is always a huge play by Westbrook. That’s not meant to diss Kevin Durant. It’s simply because those are the moments I recall. His 100 percent effort on every single play reminds me of the old school generation of hoopsters. He’s an incredible role model for teaching where there is a will — there is a way.
For all those reasons for my money, he is the best player in OKC Thunder history.
Rylan Stiles:
In terms of fans and being the iconic face of the franchise? Yes. The Word association with Oklahoma City and the Thunder will always be Russell Westbrook. The best player to ever put on a Thunder jersey? Technically? No. While he is not beloved by anyone in Bricktown anymore, Kevin Durant is and likely always will be the best basketball player to ever don an OKC Thunder jersey.
Noah Schulte:
No. For as meaningful as he was to the franchise, Russ was never at the same level as KD – and he was never particularly close. At his absolute peak, Durant was arguably the best wing scorer of all-time; at Russ’, he arguably wasn’t even the best active player at his own position. Russ will always have a deeper connection to the fanbase, but his impact on the court was never as valuable.
Aidan E:
As of right now, he is. Not in terms of individual talent however because KD is a better player than Russ, but him choosing to stay after KD left gives him extra brownie points to OKC fans.
Matthew Hallet:
He should. Kevin Durant did lots of nice things but could not do what Westbrook did on a nightly basis in his all-around game. People will say he stat padded which is rubbish. Averaging a triple-double for three straight years, no-one has done this or will do it again.
Kevon Stewart:
No. I still think Kevin Durant occupies that spot. No offense to Russ, but KD may go down as the greatest scorer of all time. Russ is, in my opinion, the best guard to play for the OKC Thunder franchise. The best player remains KD in my eyes.