It's well within reason to state that Russell Westbrook is among the most polarizing players in Association history. A former league MVP who has been to the NBA Finals in a co-starring role, Westbrook's aggressive style of play has garnered criticism for the mistakes it inevitably results in.
When the Denver Nuggets defeated the LA Clippers 112-110 in a stellar Game 1, however, Westbrook revealed exactly why he's essential to their championship dreams.
Westbrook finished the win over the Clippers with 15 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and two steals on 5-of-17 shooting. For those who simply monitor the box score, it'd be easy to assume that he produced a poor showing.
Westbrook, however, was essential to the win over LA, providing every energy play Denver could ask for on both ends of the floor.
Statistically, four of Westbrook's eight rebounds were on the offensive glass. He also scored 10 of his 15 points during the fourth quarter and overtime. For that matter, he pulled down all four of his offensive boards in the final 3:38 of the fourth quarter and during overtime.
Westbrook may not be the efficient scoring threat that many want him to be, but he proved during Game 1 that he can swing momentum in Denver's direction with his energy and timely play.
Russell Westbrook is energy personified and still a clutch contributor
Westbrook admittedly comes up with the occasional play that leaves critics scratching their heads, including the last-second turnover he committed at the end of regulation. Acknowledging his place in Denver's hierarchy, however, is a quick fix for those concerns.
Westbrook isn't the Nuggets' offensive focal point, and while he may not fit the traditional mold of a supporting player, his impact is in areas that help keep the team afloat.
Westbrook may not always come up with the shots that the Nuggets need him to make, but his impact can be profoundly positive. He comes up with plays that most don't expend the energy to make, and his athleticism continues to put him in positions most are unable to recover in time to be in.
In Game 1, that resulted in Westbrook getting back in transition defense, creating second chances, and even finding himself open at times when there was no better play than giving him the ball.
Westbrook may never be the player who flirts with a 50-40-90 season, but he can make his mark in other areas. The Nuggets seem to have figured that out, as the offense runs through Jokic and Murray, thus leaving Westbrook to fill in the gaps.
That includes his value as an inbound passer, offensive rebounder, and off-ball presence who may not always make the shot, but can be trusted to force a closeout.
Moving forward, the Clippers will have to figure out how to keep Westbrook away from the offensive glass. They've also learned how difficult it can be to score in transition when Westbrook is just a burst of speed away from contesting a shot.
The Westbrook experience has produced highs and lows over the years, but Game 1 was a shining example of the value his energy and fearlessness provide to the Nuggets.