Russell Westbrook: My Role Doesn’t Change Without Kevin Durant

By Sam Richmond | Oct 13, 2014

Feb 20, 2014; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook (0) congratulates Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Kevin Durant (35) after a made shot against the Miami Heat during the second quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

After initially getting past the shock that came with the news that Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant will be out 6-8 weeks as a result of a Jones fracture, many wondered what the injury meant for Russell Westbrook’s role on the team.

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Well, according to Westbrook, Durant’s injury has no affect on the point guard’s role.

From ESPN:

"Asked how his role might change, Westbrook responded simply, “It doesn’t.”"

It’s an interesting response from Westbrook. Despite his comments, he clearly moves from the Thunder’s No. 2 offensive option to their No. 1 and, in turn, he will be relied on more to score during Durant’s absence.

Westbrook has been a target of criticism in recent years, with many wanting him to defer to Durant more. Now, Westbrook will have the opportunity to prove just what he’s capable of when leading a team.

Still, it appears Westbrook wants the conversation to be about how the team will react to Durant’s injury, not just how he will.

"“It’s not about me. It’s about our team. I can’t win games by myself. I can’t do anything by myself,” Westbrook said Monday. “I kind of want to take the attention off me and put it more on the team. Everybody keeps asking what I’m going to do and how I’m going to change. I think it’s more about our team and what we can do.”"

Westbrook averaged 21.8 points, 6.9 assists and 5.7 rebounds per game this past season. The then-Seattle Supersonics drafted him with the No. 4 pick of the 2008 NBA Draft.

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