Kevin Durant (KD) versus Russell Westbrook has been largely decided in the public eye. KD is just superior, at least statistically.
He leads Westbrook in PER, Win Shares, True Shooting Percentage—even in minutes played. But give Westbrook credit for having a fantastic playoffs so far.
In the 2021 poll of former NBA players, Kevin Durant was named both the best player in the league and the most clutch player, ahead of LeBron James.
The reigning Finals MVP, Antetokounmpo was the only other player to receive at least 10% of the votes after Durant.
Westbrook’s inability to stretch the floor has been a major knock on his overall talent, but he’s still one of the best point guards in the league.
Westbrook came in at No. 36 in ESPN’s 2020 ranking.
But give Westbrook credit for having a fantastic playoffs so far. During the dismantling of the Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder, Russ has paced the Thunder in PER.
While many have viewed recent events as James Harden’s emergence, Westbrook’s talent and potential has been on full display.
The spot-up jumper has improved considerably, turning a purely athletic force into a man in command of his brutal instrument.