Ranking the 5 key players to impact the NBA Western Conference Finals

2) Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook could the key for the Thunder

Being OKC’s primary ball handler, Russell Westbrook pretty much does everything for the team. He runs plays, well sort off, finds open teammates off pick and rolls, drives aggressively to the basket and is ranked the highest rebounding guard in the league.

This is not to say that Westbrook is more valuable to the Thunder and the series than Westbrook. It’s just a known fact that you can expect a certain level of positive consistency from Durant, no so much from the reigning 2 time NBA All-Star Game MVP.

If and when Westbrook’s relentless beast mode is activated during the series, the Warriors’ reaction will be key to deciding whether Westbrook will be able to take control of the series or not. The problem lies in the fact that his beast mode has often times hurt his own team, as he takes some ill-advised shots and commits nasty turnovers at inopportune times.

On the flip side, if his aggressiveness pays off, Westbrook might be the most important player in the series.

It’s important for OKC and their fans that Westbrook understands his own strengths and weaknesses, and does not try to play a style that is unlike him. The last thing the Thunder needs is for Westbrook to get into a rash, fast-paced shootout with Curry.