3x NBA All-Star Defends Russell Westbrook Slander With Magic Johnson’s Example
Russell Westbrook recently joined the Denver Nuggets in the offseason after playing a season with the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite his statistics declining after his MVP season in 2017, he remains a fan favorite due to his remarkable achievements. Westbrook is one of only two players in NBA history to have averaged a triple-double for a season. The 35-year-old star has accomplished this milestone four times in his career.
However, he was recently criticized by former American football safety Ryan Clark for disappointing performances in crucial situations. Clark gave Westbrook’s game as an example while comparing him to NFL player Lamar Jackson.
Westbrook’s wife, Nina, recently slammed Clark in a comment on Instagram in response to the criticism. Additionally, a former NBA player also joined the discussion to support Westbrook.
During a recent episode of the “Gil’s Arena” show, host Gilbert Arenas defended Russell Westbrook against slander, using the example of legendary player Magic Johnson.
“It was like they were trying to discredit his triple-doubles because it was too easy for him… While trying to say hey these stats aren’t really real. You became disrespectful to the man who was doing it.” Arenas said.
You can hear the conversation at the 1:18:13 mark of the video mentioned below.
Westbrook holds the record for the most career triple-doubles in NBA history. The 35-year-old is recognized for scoring near the basket, rebounding, durability, and competitive intensity. Arenas noted that Clark questioned Westbrook’s accomplishment.
Arenas Praises Westbrook’s Unmatched Achievements
In a social media comment, Westbrook’s wife, Nina, criticized Ryan Clark, stating that his comparison was illogical. She expressed that the only commonality between Westbrook and Lamar Jackson is their exceptional skill in their respective fields.
Westbrook holds the record for the most NBA career regular-season triple-doubles with 199. During a discussion with Josiah Johnson, Nick Young, Brandon Jennings, and Kenyon Martin, Arenas commented that Westbrook’s achievements are not easy, as no players have broken his record.
“If it was that easy, why isn’t everyone trying it? When Magic Johnson was trying to catch John Stockton in assists? You don’t think he was going out there trying to forcefully make assists or making passes he shouldn’t be really trying to make or turning down shots to get an assist.” Arenas added.
According to StatMuse, Westbrook averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 68 games in the 2023-24 season. The next season is about to start, and Westbrook’s wife has fired back at the critics, telling them to wait for the next season to witness her husband’s dominance on the court.
