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Russell Westbrook is starting to look like himself as a member of the LA Clippers. Following his outing against Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday, former NBA veteran and current ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins reckons Westbrook deserves an apology.
After a rough tenure with the LA Lakers, Westbrook was traded at the trade deadline to the Utah Jazz. After negotiating a buyout, Westbrook signed with the LA Clippers for the remainder of the season.
It was a gamble for the Clippers, as Westbrook looked to be a shell of himself. Reuniting with former teammate Paul George, Westbrook seemed likely to give the Clippers a much-needed spark, though. That duly happened on Wednesday, as he finished with 36 points and ten assists in a shock 141-132 win over the Memphis Grizzlies.
Appearing on ESPN, Perkins praised Westbrook for his recent play and said that the media 'owe Westbrook an apology':
"I see a guy that's playing with passion. I see a guy that has something to prove. I see a guy that is on a mission. We, the media, myself ... We owe Russell Westbrook an apology."
Russell Westbrook starting to shine with LA Clippers
LA Clippers veteran guard Russell Westbrook is starting to give his new team a serious spark. With the NBA playoffs around the corner, it couldn't be better timing for Westbrook and the Clippers.
In 16 games with his new team, Westbrook is averaging 15.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 7.2 assists per outing, shooting 49.2%. While the numbers look impressive on paper, his recent stretch of performances is even more impressive.
With the Clippers shorthanded while Paul George is sidelined, Westbrook has stepped up. In his last five games, Westbrook is averaging 20.2 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.8 assists per contest, shooting 57.8% from the field and 40.0% from the 3-point range.
While the sample size is small, it's important to note that the confidence is starting to come back for the energetic point guard. Westbrook and the Clippers will now focus on trying to maintain their position in a competitive Western Conference. With five games remaining in the regular season, the Clippers hold a one-game lead over the Golden State Warriors for fifth place.
