Russell Westbrook was key in the Los Angeles Lakers' road win on Friday night. He made key plays down the stretch to take victory away from the jaws of defeat.

One outspoken observer who had to give it up for the Lakers point guard was Kendrick Perkins, who saw this as Westbrook's “best” showing while wearing purple and gold.

“This has to be Russell Westbrook best game in a Lakers uniform. He was under control for the most part, shot efficient from the field, couple of key defensive stops and a big time 3 pointer to send into OT! Carry the hell on….” said Kendrick Perkins.

Russell Westbrook's box score finish wasn't as eye-popping as it's been in years past. The Lakers guard have himself a modest triple-double by his standards, with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists on a decent 8-for-18 from the field.

But just as Kendrick Perkins emphasized, the eye test really worked in Westbrook's favor in this one. He was poised and didn't force the issue on anything while LeBron James led the offense with his usually efficient self. When the time was right, Westbrook made the biggest play of the game for the Lakers, stripping the ball in the dying seconds of regulation and hitting the game-tying three to force overtime.

Russell Westbrook has redeemed himself for one night. Now it's time to see if he keeps trending in the right direction to help LeBron James and the Lakers salvage what many feel has become a lost season.