Clippers Lacking Russell Westbrook’s ‘Maniac’ Energy, Claims Bill Simmons After Ty Lue’s Heartbreaking Update

THE Los Angeles Clippers have looked like a legitimate title contender this season. They currently have one of the richest teams in the NBA, with stars like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and James Harden. Their roster is so formidable that even 9-time All-Star Russell Westbrook has accepted a role coming off the bench. Westbrook embraced his sparkplug role from the start. However, an untimely injury to Westbrook’s hand threw the Clippers’ season into disarray.

Russell Westbrook fractured his left hand against the Washington Wizards. He had to undergo surgery to repair his left hand. Several media outlets have reported that Westbrook will return in time for the start of the playoffs. However, Clippers HC Ty Lue recently provided a concerning update on Broody’s return, as he stated that there is no set timetable for his return.

The Clippers experienced a dip in performance in Westbrook’s absence, leading fans to recognize his significant impact on the team. NBA insider Bill Simmons specifically identified the underrated aspect of Broody’s game that the Clippers severely missed. During conversation about the Bill Simmons Podcast, Simmons said Westbrook’s energy is a game-changer. He said, “He (Westbrook) can change the energy of games when they don’t have any. He comes in and acts like a crazy person, and I’ve seen that happen several times this year.

While many have underestimated Russell WestbrookPreviously important to the Clippers, his recent absence has demonstrated how essential he is to the team’s performance. In fact, the Clippers were only able to win four of the nine games Broody missed. But what are Westbrook’s statistical performances this season?

Russell Westbrook’s declining numbers

During his illustrious career, few players have matched the performance of Russell Westbrook. He was a statistical outlier in the NBA for most of his career, averaging a triple-double over a full season four times. However, Russell witnessed a steep decline in his statistics during the later years of his NBA career. In fact, the 2023-24 season was Westbrook’s worst statistical season to date.

He averaged 11.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game this season. But despite statistically underperforming, his time with the Clippers is widely considered a success. Russell Westbrook’s impact on the Clippers’ title aspirations cannot be understated. He has yet to win an NBA title in his illustrious career. But could 2024 be the year he finally gets his hands on the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy? Let us know in the comments below!