Given how this season is going for Russell Westbrook, Sacramento Kings fans are probably getting used to him making history. While he didn't make history last night against the Bucks, the man played an incredibly well-rounded game that proved again why he's one of the greatest point guards ever.
For this Kings' season to be considered garbage, they would actually have to start doing better. Sacramento is in the middle of a five-game slide that requires them to beat one of the Mavericks, Warriors, Rockets, Lakers, or Knicks in the next nine days to stop it.
As it stands, Sacramento is sitting in the 14th spot in the Western Conference with a record of eight wins and 28 losses. The only team behind them is the Pelicans with eight wins and 29 losses. If the Pelicans pick up one more win, they'll bump the Kings down a spot and fully into the basement.
Russell Westbrook has become the Kings' hero
Laying all of this out is meant to emphasize how important Russell Westbrook has been to the Kings this season. His great play, combined with him setting new records and moving up all-time lists in a Sacramento jersey, is about the only thing fans can cheer about anymore.
Even in games when he's not making history, Westbrook is still basically a walking highlight for the team. The Kings got blown out by the Bucks last night with a final score of 115 to 98. It would have been worse, but Sacramento had a late push to make it slightly less embarrassing.
Westbrook finished the game with 21 points, six rebounds, three assists, four steals, and three blocks. It wasn't exactly a clean game as Russell collected three turnovers and five fouls, just barely managing to stay on the court during his almost 38 minutes in the game.
Brodie played a complete game for the Kings
Yes, the records and rising up the all-time lists are impressive, but stat lines like that are what make Westbrook such a legendary point guard. He played a complete game for the Kings, dominating on both offense and defense against the Bucks.
Russell had 40% of the Kings' total steals last night as well as 43% of their blocks. That's on top of being Sacramento's top scorer and pulling down the second-most rebounds. This is a player who is out there in his 18th season doing anything and everything he can to get a win for his team.
That level of hustle and passion is what makes Westbrook so special. The man is closing in on his 20th season and is still putting in a maximum effort every time he's on the court. You can't teach that kind of energy and commitment.