On Wednesday night, the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Dallas Mavericks, 120-111, bringing their record to 17-10 and continuing an impressive win streak.
Russell Westbrook had yet another strong game with his 10 points and 6 rebounds off the bench.
All six of those rebounds were defensive ones and they had people talking about how strong Westbrook has been with defense this year.
Speaking to Tomer Azarly after the game, Westbrook spoke about his defensive plans.
Westbrook feels that he has earned his spot on the All-NBA Defensive Team this year.
“I don’t need it, but unfortunately, I haven’t had one because I don’t know,” Westbrook said.
He went on: “I’ve been very deserving of it at some point of my career. If that’s what happens, I’ll be grateful, but I’m gonna keep defending my a– off.”
Russell Westbrook on if All-NBA Defensive Team be validation or his defense
"I don't need it, but unfortunately, I haven't had one because I don't know. But I've been very deserving of it at some point of my career. If that's what happens, I'll be grateful, but I'm gonna keep…
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) December 21, 2023
Westbrook has indeed claimed many NBA accolades over the years, such as scoring champion twice and assist champion twice.
He was also named All-Star MVP two times and league MVP in 2017.
But Westbrook has usually been known as an offensive threat and not a defensive one so he has yet to be named to an All-NBA Defensive Team.
This season has been one of great change for Westbrook.
Once again, he has become a bench player and, once again, he has shown that he can handle the role well.
He is averaging 11.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game and is shooting 45.9% from the field.
And his defensive game has definitely gotten better as Westbrook has worked hard to shut down opponents and stay on top of his competitors with ferocious speed.
Will that be enough to give Westbrook his first place on the All-NBA Defensive Team?
NEXT: Fans React To Clippers' Winning Streak