Last week many were shocked to learn that Russell Westbrook had not been voted into the starting line-up of the 2018 All-Star game, despite the fact that he is very close to once again averaging a triple-double on the season.
But when speaking with the press Westbrook didn't come off as disappointed that he won't start. Not nearly as disappointed as he sounded about teammate Paul George being snubbed altogether, during Tuesday night's (January 23) post-game interview with reporters.
"I think it’s just outrageous, in my opinion. I don’t know who else made the team, but you got four people from one team, you’ve got guys complaining about getting snubbed until they get in, you’ve got guys just talking about it all the time. But the guys that deserve it—should be in—are not. I just don’t understand. Doesn’t make any sense," Westbrook said after a 109-108 Thunder win over the Brooklyn Nets.
His mention of "four players from one team" was clearly a passing reference to the Golden State Warriors, who will be represented by All-Star captain Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson.
Paul George is averaging 20.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game for Oklahoma City. Among the attributes that Westbrook noted George ought to be credited for is his Western Conference-leading 2.1 steals per game. When broken down, he said that he considers George one of the two best players at his position.
George gave off a modest response when reporters addressed him about being left off of the roster. "It is what it is. I’ve got a longer break in between the season now," he said.
Source: complex.com
