Reasons why the Houston Rockets should trade for Russell Westbrook

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OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – APRIL 21: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder warms up before a game against the Portland Trail Blazers during Round One Game Three of the 2019 NBA Playoffs on April 21, 2019 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. The Trail Blazers defeated the Thunder 111-98. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

In the playoffs and accolades

In the playoffs, Westbrook averaged the fourth most minutes per night, the 4th most steals and the most assists per night also, so he is a fairly consistent player. You certainly know what you’re getting each night with Westbrook. All hustle and maximum effort, which are traits I’d bet the Rockets liked in Jimmy Butler also as that’s what his game is also predicated on. Granted I’m not saying Brodie and Jimmy Butler are the same players because they certainly are not, but they both give maximum energy and effort on the floor.

The Rockets also like adding star power, and Westbrook is certainly that. At this point, Westbrook is arguably a bigger star than Jimmy Butler, who we know the Rockets really wanted. Westbrook has been named to 8 All-Star teams, 8 All-NBA teams and is a former MVP.

While many may think a Westbrook/Harden pairing wouldn’t work as they are both ball dominant, I should remind you that Westbrook had no problem taking a back seat to Paul George. Actually, when the game was on the line, George was usually the one taking the last shot. Even more, Westbrook was often the one setting up Paul George for the last shot. There’s also a narrative that Westbrook likes to force a high number of shots, although Westbrook actually had 8 triple doubles in which he attempted 15 field goals or fewer during this past season and 6 such games in the previous season.

3 players the Rockets should pursue. Next

I think this would be a good addition for the Houston Rockets, as Westbrook is still in the prime of his career and playing at an All-Star level. Rockets fans may very well have the splash move they’ve been waiting for!