Russell Westbrook’s aggressiveness is imperative for the Rockets

Although Russell Westbrook has had his fair of struggles lately, he must remain aggressive for the Houston Rockets to advance to the next round.

Russell Westbrook has struggled for the Houston Rockets during this year’s playoffs. Westbrook has averaged 30.8 minutes through six games and is averaging 18 points per game on 22.7 percent from long-range and 52.9 percent from the free throw line, which is a playoff low for Westbrook.

Westbrook struggled in Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals, shooting 3-of-15 from the field, including 1-for-7 from three. Westbrook made the Rockets 14 points worse while on the court during that game. Hopefully, Westbrook can turn the page for the Rockets.

Westbrook talked about his shooting struggles after a Game 2 loss against the Lakers on Sunday night.

“That happens. I’ll come back ready to go. Its 1-1, it isn’t like I’ve played six games in the series. It’s 1-1,” Westbrook said Sunday night.

Instead of Westbrook taking so many perimeter shots, he needs to be more aggressive for the Rockets. Westbrook becomes more dangerous when he attacks the basket, which he averages 52.4 percent inside the restricted area.

He even gives the Rockets a better chance because of his ability to create towards the basket. When Westbrook is attacking the basket, this allows the Rockets’ shooters to become wide open, also allowing the driving lanes to be open when the Lakers close out on the shooters.  D’Antoni mentioned how important Westbrook’s aggressiveness is for the Rockets.

“He’s still working his way back. He’ll always be aggressive, he needs to be aggressive,” D’Antoni said Sunday night. “That’s why he’s Russell Westbrook, and that’s fine. He’ll work it out.”

Next: Westbrook's turnovers