Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant had some words for each other in KD’s first game back in Oklahoma City Saturday night.
Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant have largely stayed silent about their feelings towards one another. When Durant speaks on Westbrook he usually claims there is no real dislike for one another, despite reports they haven’t spoken since Durant’s departure.
Westbrook usually refuses to comment on it all together. Perhaps that’s true and their feelings towards each other, while not great, involve no real dislike for one another. It’s certainly possible, but this definitely should not be mistaken for friendliness.
Midway through the third quarter, during a dead ball, Westbrook and Durant crossed paths on the way to their benches. Westbrook had some words for Durant that were definitely not a simple “Hello, how are you doing?” but rather, full on trash talk. The chirping went all the way to each player’s bench, and Westbrook got a big slap on the chest from Enes Kanter.
You can see Westbrook mouthing, “I’m coming!” as he had scored 14 points in the quarter to help trim the Thunder’s double-digit deficit, while KD gestured back as if to say, “That’s cool, you’re still losing.”
It’s believable that most days go by with these two not caring much about the other. It would be weird if they did to be honest, but not even they can deny that this game matters to them. The result at the moment might be in Golden State’s favor, but that’s not what’s important. It’s about sending a message to each other.
Westbrook is on the losing end of this game, but what he’s saying to Durant is likely the first extended conversation they’ve had since the announcement. It’s clearly not friendly.
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The result being a blowout is disappointing considering what the stakes would be if it were closer. Perhaps the two sides would be willing to talk a little more trash and give everybody something to really get excited about. For now, fans will have to settle for this. Westbrook’s message to Durant was received loud and clear.