Despite still being in the preseason, Russell Westbrook has competed with the same intensity as regular season games. He has made a name for himself as a no-nonsense player on the court, and a fierce competitor that gives his all to win.

During Tuesday’s preseason game against the Denver Nuggets, the reigning MVP did not appreciate the screen given to him by Nikola Jokic. The Oklahoma City Thunder superstar then decided to make it known that he was unhappy with it, and retaliated by using his shoulder to push the Nuggets center to the ground. The referees immediately blew their whistles and gave the possession to the home team.

https://twitter.com/world_wide_wob/status/917921809500131328

Russell Westbrook has not been the type who backs down from trash talking, or playing rough. He leads by example as he wants his teammates to follow suit and play tough each night. His latest run-in with Nikola Jokic goes to show that he will once again be a source of energy and competitiveness for the Thunder this coming season.

The Brodie is only appearing in his third preseason game, and is still working on chemistry with Paul George and Carmelo Anthony. But if they can all seamlessly co-exist on the floor they may live up to expectations and truly become a serious contender for the title.