Following an uneven and rocky start, the Oklahoma City Thunder have found a way to turn it around ahead of the league’s mid-way point. Though Russell Westbrook appears to have returned to his MVP form, there’s a lot more to the Thunder’s recent success than just their point guard.
Offseason acquisitions Paul George and Carmelo Anthony have found their fits alongside Westbrook as well. George especially has turned into a perfect complimentary piece for Westbrook but when the All-Star rosters came out, PG was left off the list.
ESPN’s Royce Young asked Westbrook what he thought of his teammate’s snub and no surprise, the UCLA product came to the defense of his running mate.
Russell Westbrook called it “outrageous” that Paul George was not named an All-Star: pic.twitter.com/62vmKKbFSx
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) January 24, 2018
While this may be an attempt to boost his teammate’s confidence and increase comradery, Westbrook still believes what he’s saying as he should. After starting off the season as one of the few defensive stalwarts on the wing, George has found his rhythm on the offensive end recently as well.
There’s almost no doubt his two-way play deserves an All-Star berth but it’s also hard to fault the NBA when there are so many deserving players, especially out West.
As many know, Paul George has made it clear he anticipates joining the Lakers this summer but his mind could be changing. Whether Russ made the comment deliberately or actually felt that way, it’s clear PG has found himself an improving organization with teammates that got his back, something that’s obviously important when debating your professional future.
