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[Saba Sports News] Russell Westbrook’s recent success with the Los Angeles Clippers, primarily as a bench player, has highlighted his defensive prowess. The Clippers extended their winning streak to nine games with a 120-111 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, where Westbrook contributed significantly in his 23-minute play.
Post-game, Westbrook confidently claimed his defensive skills are among the NBA’s best.
“Ain’t too many people defending better than me at this point, if we keeping it honest,” Westbrook said. “I’ll let the numbers speak for that and let y’all talk about it. Not too many people defending better than me at this position all around the league, honestly.”
Despite past criticisms for defensive lapses, he expressed no need for external validation but admitted a potential All-Defensive Team selection at 35 would be a welcome acknowledgment of his efforts. Westbrook’s commitment to defense could be a key factor for the Clippers and possibly earn him his first All-Defensive Team honor.
“You know what, I don’t need it, but unfortunately I haven’t had one because … I don’t know,” he said. “I’ve been very deserving of it at some point in my career. If that’s what happens this year, I’d be grateful and blessed for that to happen. I’m gonna keep defending my a– off every night and let it take care of itself.”