Westbrook provided 14 points (3-18 FG, 1-6 3Pt, 7-8 FT), eight rebounds and eight assists over 39 minutes during Tuesday's 136-130 loss to the Suns in Game 5 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals.
Westbrook racked up the counting stats as per usual, but unfortunately, his shot failed him, and not for the first time this season. With both Kawhi Leonard (knee) and Paul George (knee) sidelined, Westbrook stepped into a larger role over the past few games. While he did manage to show glimpses of his former self, his limitations remain very real. The Clippers' path forward is far from clear, especially when it comes to Leonard and George who seemingly can't stay healthy. As for Westbrook, he is likely to be shouldered with a similar role next season, even if he is moved out of Los Angeles.
Clippers' Russell Westbrook: Turns back clock in loss
Rotowire
Westbrook notched 37 points (17-29 FG, 3-6 3Pt), six rebounds, four assists, one block and one steal in 40 minutes during Saturday's 112-100 loss to the Suns in Game 4 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals.
Westbrook did everything he could to lift the Clippers to victory, scoring a game-high 37 points on 17-of-29 shooting. Without both Paul George (knee) and Kawhi Leonard (knee), Westbrook has had to play as the primary option on offense, a role that he has not had to do for much of the season. While his individual numbers are great, it appears as though the end is nigh for the Clippers, who are now headed back to Phoenix down 3-1 in the series.
Clippers' Russell Westbrook: Flirts with triple-double in loss
Rotowire
Westbrook closed Thursday's 129-124 loss to the Suns in Game 3 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals with 30 points (11-23 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 5-6 FT), eight rebounds, 12 assists, one block and three steals in 40 minutes.
With Kawhi Leonard (knee) out, Westbrook took on more offensive responsibilities in Game 3 and nearly posted his first triple-double of the playoffs. The veteran point guard didn't shoot extremely well from the field and committed six turnovers, but it was still one of his best performances in a Clipper uniform. Paul George (knee) isn't expected to suit up this series, so if Leonard remains out for Saturday's Game 4, Westbrook may be asked to lead the offense once again.
