Russell Westbrook earlier said that he was done talking about triple-doubles, but that didn't mean he was done getting them. Westbrook achieves his 13th triple-double of the season in 20-20 fashion in the game against Oklahoma Phoenix Suns 114-101.
"My teammates did a great job of spacing, catching and finishing, making some shots," he said. "My job is to be able to find those guys. The ball is in my hands a lot." According to USA Today, Westbrook was able to score 26 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in his 13th triple-double of the season. He had gone three games without one, yet the league's leading scorer continues to average double figures in points, rebounds and assists.
Westbrook led his teammates for much of the night, but he also showed why he averages more than 30 points per game. He scored 17 points on 5-for-9 shooting in the third quarter to help the Thunder push their lead out to 20 points. "As the game goes on, I read and kind of see what's open," he said. "And I can go back to different things that I see that's open and try to find ways to be assertive and when not to be. That's just something I've learned over the years."
ESPN adds that Westbrook's triple-double is the first in 18 seasons with at least 20 points and 20 assists. He is also the first to post a triple-double with at least 25 points and 20 assists since Magic Johnson did it in 1988. What's more remarkable is that Westbrook only achieved it in 34 minutes of play.
Furthermore, Westbrook's triple-double is the 50th of his career, making him 10 away from passing Larry Bird for fifth in NBA history. He also had a seven-game triple-double streak this season, but it was snapped with their game against the Boston Celtics. He did not record one in consecutive games against the Portland Trail Blazers and Jazz. However, on Saturday was an exemption. Meanwhile, many were amazed with Westbrook's 22 assist as there are a number of no-look passes that left the arena buzzing.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
