“I respect him for everything he stands…” Russell Westbrook heaps huge praise on Kyrie Irving after intense Clippers vs Mavericks game

Russell Westbrook thanks Kyrie Irving for supporting him through the tough times he had to face. He has tremendous respect for what Irving does on the court and off it.


“I respect him for everything he stands…” Russell Westbrook heaps huge praise on Kyrie Irving after intense Clippers vs Mavericks game

Russell Westbrook and Kyrie Irving (Image courtesy - AP)

Russell Westbrook and Kyrie Irving have played as the best point guards in the NBA for several seasons. Playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, Westbrook was asked about his opinion about Irving during the post-game press conference. The duo faced off against each other in the Clippers vs. Mavericks game.

Westbrook had a miserable stint with the Los Angeles Lakers. At the time, Kyrie Irving came to Westbrook’s defense. Remembering this, Westbrook said:

I respect him for everything that he stands for and stands on. Especially his family… Mutual respect, and I’m always thankful for him supporting me through everything since I’ve been in the league.
Russell Westbrook via post-game media appearance
YouTube video

Westbrook has had a resurgent year with the Clippers, averaging 12.2 points, 6.2 Rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. Just like last year with the team, his stats do not reflect his play for the team. Westbrook led the second unit of the Clippers to brilliant effect. The backdrop to this question came when Kyrie Irving dropped a video on his Instagram feed showing Russell Westbrook highlights. Check out what he posted below:

FS Video

Westbrook was always seen as the player responsible for the wasted seasons of LeBron James, as his style of play was not a match for both James and his teammate Anthony Davis.

After being traded to the Clippers mid-season last year, the Lakers went on a surge up the standings and eventually reached the Western Conference Finals. Many say that first trading for and then trading Westbrook away was the worst and best decision Los Angeles Lakers GM Rob Pelinka made.

How did Russell Westbrook and Kyrie Irving’s meeting go on the court?

Russell Westbrook’s Los Angeles Clippers beat Kyrie Irving’s Mavericks 107 – 88. Irving posted 26 points, six rebounds, and three assists, which was not enough to beat the Clippers. Westbrook put up 14 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists coming off the bench. Westbrook’s energy on the offensive boards gave the Clippers second-chance points.

Russell Westbrook and Kyrie Irving
Russell Westbrook and Kyrie Irving (Image courtesy – basketnews)

The Clippers had five players in double figures, led by Paul George with 25. The Mavericks’ offense, in comparison, stuttered behind Irving and Luka Doncic. Starters like Grant Williams, Derrick Jones Jr., and Richaun Holmes put up less than 10 points combined. The Mavericks role players need to contribute heavily if Kyrie and Luka hope to make the playoffs this season.

On the other hand, the Clippers have started to play well since the acquisition of James Harden. Initially, they struggled but Westbrook decided to come off the bench to help the team. Westbrook showcased his leadership skills and selfless nature with that move.

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