Why Russell Westbrook is the most important factor of a Rockets title run

Why Russell Westbrook is the key to making the Rockets champions

During the Chris Paul era, James Harden didn’t have the ball in his hand as much as he was accustomed to because it made sense to have Paul set up the offense, which could ultimately create more space and opportunity for Harden to showcase his offensive skills.

However, Harden visibly failed to adapt to Paul’s backcourt game, and both guys never could seem to get on the same page when they really needed to, which resulted in the departure of Paul from the Rockets organization.

Paul was the older, more experienced player and he tried to mentor Harden and help him use his offensive skills to help broaden the team’s success. At times, though, it seemed like Harden was only interested in helping himself, and that killed the Rockets’ chances of achieving their one goal.

Now, the Rockets have Westbrook in place of Paul, and so far the move has paid off. Westbrook doesn’t have the true point guard skills or overall intelligence Paul brought to that position, but his speed, quickness, dangerous offensive skills and prior playing experience with Harden make him more suited to be alongside him.

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