Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant went at it during Sunday's game between the Brooklyn Nets and LA Lakers. Westbrook successfully guarded his former OKC Thunder co-star on multiple possessions.
The first stop Westbrook had against Durant was towards the end of the first quarter. Durant was in a one-on-one situation with the Lakers' guard in the mid-post and got some separation after turning his left shoulder. However, Westbrook stayed with him and managed to get a block from behind.
Here's the clip (via Hoop Central on Twitter):
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The next stop Russell Westbrook got against Kevin Durant was early in the fourth quarter. The LA Lakers were up by six points, and Durant was looking to reduce the deficit.
Westbrook was assigned to guard KD on that play. They were in the mid-post again. Durant dribbled and tried to create some separation. However, Westbrook read the play well and gave no space to the Nets star, who eventually moved both his feet and got whistled for a travel violation.
Here's the play (via Hoop Central on Twitter):
Russell Westbrook looked as comfortable as ever guarding Kevin Durant
Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant spent nine years together with the OKC Thunder. They formed one of the best young partnerships in the league during the early 2010s. Russ and KD led the Thunder to an NBA Finals appearance as well.
Despite their tremendous potential as teammates, Durant decided to leave the franchise in 2016 and join the Golden State Warriors in search of championship success. Westbrook and KD fiercely competed when they stepped on the floor as rivals and even had a beef, which they moved on from later.
The two haven't ditched their competitive edge when playing against each other. Their matchups are always interesting to watch as they bring the best out of each other. Westbrook, in particular, has found success while guarding his former teammate.
They don't match up frequently in one-on-one situations, but when they do, Westbrook ensures he uses his experience of playing alongside Durant, making it difficult for the Nets forward to score.
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