Washington Wizards point guard Russell Westbrook has added a new nickname to Bradley Beal's collection, calling him the “silent assassin” when speaking to media, via Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix.

Acquired just three days ago in a blockbuster trade that sent former top draft pick John Wall to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Westbrook, the comments were the first public statements the new Wizards guard had made since the mammoth deal.

Playing for what will be his third team in as many seasons, Westbrook's commitment to assist Beal will likely be seen as a signal by the former MVP to accept a secondary role on the team's roster. Though he had expressed similar enthusiasm when reunited with former teammate James Harden in Houston last offseason, the fit between the two ball-dominant players proved to be more difficult than initially thought, and led to rumors of both being disgruntled at the direction of the partnership.

While the Rockets were able to advance to the Western Conference Semifinals, the presence of both Harden and Westbrook forced the team to institute several personnel changes leading up to the trade deadline in an attempt to make the duo successful on the court.

With the trade to the Wizards—which reportedly came after Westbrook requested a move—the point guard is likely facing what will be the final opportunity to shape his legacy. Criticized for his habit of demanding the ball, Westbrook has in the past pushed back against the narrative and claimed he is more than willing to serve as a second option when required to.

If he truly believes Bradley Beal is a “silent assassin,” then Westbrook needs to let Beal lead with the ball, while the former Rocket does all the talking.