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Following the addition of Carmelo Anthony and Paul George to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the offseason, many wondered what will be the direct effect on Russell Westbrook’s game. They expected higher assist numbers from him, but less scoring, which is exactly how he’s started the campaign so far. His usage has also been considerably lower from a year ago, and his rating through seven games proves just that.
Throughout the entirety of last season, there were only four games wherein the reigning MVP’s usage rate was below 30, and in their first seven games this year, he has already matched that, according to Michael Gallagher of NBC. It only goes to show how the load he had to carry on both ends of the floor has lessened with the arrival of his two All-Star teammates.
Russell Westbrook already has four games with a usage rate below 30 this season (7 games). That matches his total from last year (81 games).
— Michael Gallagher (@MikeSGallagher) November 1, 2017
With this being the case for him now, it will definitely help him not be as fatigued as last year, and will be able to conserve his energy once the playoffs start. The defense will also not be focused on him alone, as he has more help in Anthony and George. This may lead to more easy baskets for him as the season progresses, and as the three of them form better chemistry on the floor.
This is exactly the reason why the Thunder traded for their two new stars, as they believe they can compliment Westbrook’s game. So far so good for the team, and the only question that remains is how successful they’ll be this season, which will be very interesting to see how things will unfold for them.
