3 reasons why Russell Westbrook is now back to his best

On September 12th, Russell Westbrook underwent surgery due to stiffness and inflammation in his knee. The surgery happened at the worst possible time, as Westbrook was just gearing up for the Thunder's training camp, and the injury also led to some experts to claim that Westbrook would never return to his former form.

The fears were understandable due to Westbrook having had four previous operations on his knee, including one for a meniscus tear that he suffered during the 2013 playoffs. Despite a slow start to the season, the All-Star has now put any fears to rest, and here are three reasons why Westbrook is nearing his 2017 MVP season form.

#3 Return of the triple-double

Russell Westbrook recently returned for the Oklahoma City Thunder

While Westbrook has missed nearly half of the Thunder's games so far this season, the point-guard already leads the league in triple-doubles. The 30-year-old got his first of the season against the defending champions (Warriors) on national television, and he has since recorded a further two in his last three games.

This week against the Cavaliers, Westbrook exploded for 23 points, 19 rebounds, and 15 assists. His fourth triple-double of the season was also the 107th of his career, a figure that moved him level with Jason Kidd.

Westbrook is averaging a near triple-double for the season, and he now has the chance to average a triple-double for an unprecedented third consecutive season.

#2 Rejuvenated Westbrook

Westbrook has missed a large part of the season through injury

For the first time since Kevin Durant left in 2016, the Thunder have been able to win without Westbrook on the court. Due to this, Billy Donovan has been able to let his star-man fully recover, rather than having to rush him back when he was not fit.

Westbrook's extended rest period has led to the point-guard hitting the ground running since his return, and the point-guard looks fresh, fit and ready to lead the Thunder to the postseason.

#1 Return of His Explosiveness

Russell Westbrook is well known for his incredible athletic ability at both ends of the court

The one thing that is universally associated with Russell Westbrook is his ability to explode when driving towards the opposition's rim. The combination of speed, agility, and strength result in Westbrook being virtually unstoppable, and the Thunder man has unleashed some of the meanest dunks in NBA history.

In the early games of the season, Westbrook showed somewhat of a reluctance when driving towards the opponent's basket. This was understandable as the Thunder star was coming off of a fourth serious knee injury, although the point-guard has since regained his confidence, and is once again demonstrating his explosive ability.

Westbrook turned 30 earlier this month, so his game may naturally slow down, however, based on current evidence, the 7-time All-Star looks set to once again be the NBA's most dynamic player in 2019.