After breaking into the top 10 of the NBA’s all-time assists list in January, Russell Westbrook, who is currently playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, has continued to move up the list. Isiah Thomas has now been officially eclipsed by Westbrook to take up the ninth position.
Westbrook only needed three assists going into Saturday’s game against the New York Knicks to surpass Thomas’ mark. Prior to the game, he had 9,059 assists, whereas the iconic Detroit Pistons player had 9,061 assists during the course of his illustrious career. Westbrook passed the ball to Paul George in the third quarter, giving him an easy dunk and recording his third assist of the contest.
Given that Westbrook has spent most of his career averaging triple-doubles, it’s not surprising that he has developed into one of the NBA’s best passers. Passing Isiah Thomas, though, might be simple. Oscar Robertson, the original triple-double champion, is presently ranked eighth with 9,887 assists. To surpass that number, Westbrook might require more than one season.
With 15,806 assists, John Stockton is first on the NBA all-time assists list. Only two players who are still playing right now are in the top five on the list: Chris Paul and LeBron James. LeBron is in fourth place with 10,371 coins, while Paul is in third with 11,380 and counting.
What does the first season of Russell Westbrook look like?
In his first season with the Clippers, Westbrook has been an integral part of their success. His dynamic playmaking ability has allowed him to make a significant impact on both ends of the court. While his scoring output has taken a bit of a dip this season, Westbrook has continued to be a threat with his passing and rebounding.
With the playoffs quickly approaching, the Clippers will need Westbrook to continue playing at a high level if they hope to make a deep run. Westbrook’s playoff experience and ability to elevate his game in big moments could be the key to the Clippers’ success. Whether he’s setting individual records or chasing a championship, Westbrook’s impact on the game of basketball is undeniable.
Can the Clippers’ Trio secure Clippers a championship title for the first time?
The Los Angeles Clippers have a chance to win their first title in team history under the leadership of the triumvirate of Russell Westbrook, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George. With 36 wins and 33 losses, the Clippers are currently in fifth place in the Western Conference.
With his spectacular playmaking skills, Westbrook, who joined the Clippers this season, has significantly contributed to the team’s success. Furthermore, important players Leonard and George consistently produce impressive numbers on both ends of the court.
If the Clippers are to have any chance of going far in the playoffs, they will need their star players to keep performing at a high level. Both Leonard and George have won championships with the Toronto Raptors and the San Antonio Spurs, respectively. With his ability to record a triple-double and postseason experience, Westbrook might be the final piece the Clippers need to win the championship.
The Clippers might pose a real threat in the playoffs and bring Los Angeles its first championship trophy if the trio can maintain their high level of play and stay healthy.
