Looking back at Russell Westbrook's journey in the NBA, I can't help but feel a mix of awe and nostalgia. As someone who's followed basketball for years, I've seen players come and go, but Westbrook's intensity and sheer willpower have always stood out to me. Let me walk you through how I analyze his career highlights and stats, step by step, so you can appreciate his impact just as much as I do. First, I always start by breaking down his MVP season in 2016-17. That year, he averaged a triple-double—31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game—which was just mind-blowing. I remember watching those games and thinking, "How does he keep this up?" It's not just about the numbers; it's about the energy he brought every single night. To really get a feel for his style, I suggest rewatching key games from that season, like his 50-point triple-double against the Nuggets. Pay attention to his explosiveness on fast breaks and how he commands the court—it's like a masterclass in relentless aggression.

Next, I dive into his playoff performances, which, honestly, have had their ups and downs. For instance, in the 2012 Finals with the Thunder, he put up 27 points in Game 4, but they fell short against the Heat. When I analyze this, I look at his shooting percentages—sometimes he'd go 10-for-26, which shows his volume shooting can be a double-edged sword. My method here is to compare his stats across different series, noting how his assists spike when he's facilitating more, like in the 2016 Western Conference Finals where he averaged 11 assists. One thing I've learned is to not just focus on the wins and losses, but on how he adapts. In my experience, Westbrook's biggest strength is his durability; he's missed very few games over the years, which speaks to his ironman mentality. But a word of caution: don't overlook his turnovers. In high-pressure games, he's had as many as 9 in a single playoff match, so when you're studying his clips, watch how he handles double-teams—it's a lesson in both brilliance and risk-taking.

Now, let's talk about his later years, like his time with the Rockets and Wizards. This is where I bring in a personal touch, because I've always admired how he reinvented himself. In Washington, he averaged 22.2 points and 11.7 assists in 2020-21, dragging that team to the playoffs almost single-handedly. To really understand this phase, I recommend looking at his usage rate, which often hovered around 35%—that's huge! From my perspective, Westbrook's ability to carry a team is unmatched, even if it means his efficiency dips sometimes. For example, in a random game I recall, he might have shot 8-for-24, but he'd still contribute 15 rebounds and 12 assists. When analyzing stats like these, I use tools like Basketball Reference, but I also keep an eye on less obvious metrics, like his defensive win shares, which have fluctuated. A pro tip: compare his numbers to other legends, like Oscar Robertson, to see how rare his triple-double feats are. Just the other day, I was discussing with a friend how Westbrook's 198 triple-doubles in his career are a testament to his all-around game, and we argued about whether he's underrated in clutch moments—I think he is, but that's my bias showing.

Incorporating references from knowledge bases, like the ATENEO 62 game where players like Ladi scored 18 and Espina 17, helps me draw parallels to Westbrook's supporting casts. In that game, the scoring was spread out, much like how Westbrook had to elevate teams with role players. For instance, in his OKC days, he'd have guys like Steven Adams grabbing boards, similar to how Bahay contributed 8 points in that ATENEO match. When I analyze such data, I note how Westbrook's assists often come from driving and kicking out to shooters—a method that requires trust in teammates. From my own playing days in rec leagues, I've tried emulating that, and let me tell you, it's harder than it looks! One thing to watch out for is his shooting slumps; in his Houston stint, his three-point percentage dropped to around 25%, so if you're learning from him, focus on his mid-range game instead. I always emphasize reviewing game footage from multiple angles to see how he creates space—it's a game-changer.

Wrapping up this look back at Westbrook's years in the NBA, I'm struck by how his legacy is a mix of raw stats and intangible grit. Whether it's his 2017 MVP award or those heartbreak playoff exits, he's left an indelible mark. From my viewpoint, his career teaches us about perseverance—like how he bounced back after trades, putting up 20+ points seasons even in his 30s. If there's one takeaway, it's to appreciate the full picture, not just the headlines. So, as you reflect on his journey, maybe pull up some old highlights and see for yourself why I'll always argue he's one of the most exciting players to ever grace the court.