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Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook should be salivating at facing a Philadelphia 76ers team without Joel Embiid in Game 5 on Wednesday.
Now, it should be said Embiid's injury is a real shame for the Sixers and the sport. A ferocious competitor like Russell Westbrook would also likely prefer to beat his opponent at full strength.
Still, it's hard not to think of all the advantages Westbrook gains from Embiid not being on the floor.
“The Brodie” had an atrocious shooting night in Washington's Game 4 victory on Monday night, going just 3-for-19 from the field. Yet, he still managed to score 19 points because he relentlessly attacked the basket and converted 13 of his 16 free-throw attempts.
About those free-throw numbers… 10 of Westbrook's attempts came in the second half with Embiid already sidelined. He showed no hesitation in taking the ball to the bucket and trying to score at the rim.
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Someone as fearless as Russell Westbrook is going to keep coming, anyway. But he can practically drive with impunity when a top rim protector and shot contester like Embiid is not on the court. That aggressiveness pays dividends for the Wizards because it forces the defense to send help and creates other opportunities for Washington either on the perimeter or offensive glass.
Moreover, Embiid's absence might also allow Westbrook to wreak more havoc on the offensive glass. He had six offensive boards and 21 total rebounds in Game 4. It stands to reason he Westbrook will have another big night on the boards in Game 5.
Washington will still need a total team effort to beat the Sixers even without Embiid in action. This is especially true given Davis Bertans has already been ruled out for the remainder of the series with a calf issue.
That said, Russell Westbrook's total impact on the game should be that much more tangible as he looks to attack the heart of Philadelphia's defense and stay on the offensive. Do not be surprised if Westbrook finishes with another 15 free-throw attempts and puts up a monster triple-double as he tries to keep Washington alive.
