slick_watts wrote:i have some very spicy takes on this series.
My hot take is the Westbrook injury could be a blessing in disguise for the Rockets for the following reasons:
1. Westbrook has shot under 40% in each of the last three playoff series. Shooting 38% over that time-frame.
2. Westbrook is notorious for playing undisciplined defense. He loses his defender too often because he's too busy staring at the ball handler and trying to jump passing lanes for steals.
3. Without Westbrook there will be fewer frustration fouls and technical fouls that give opponents cheap points at the free throw line. And you can't forget all the times he lags behind on defense because he's too busy arguing with refs about a missed call.
4. Emotions will be in check. The Rockets won't have to worry about having a player going off the reservation, turning the game into a personal grudge match. The focus will be on making smart plays to win games rather than on watching Russ attempt to settle personal vendettas within the game.
These are some reasons why I want Westbrook to play because I want to see OKC benefit from that stuff for a change.