Sorry, I misunderstood Westbrook!

This summer, as Westbrook searched for a job, I consistently said the Denver Nuggets were the best team for him.

It’s nice to be sheltered under the big tree that is Jokic.

“Out of the 30 NBA teams, the one that still fits him best, matching this phase of his life and style of play, is the Denver Nuggets, backed by Jokic’s powerful support.”

So, when he declined the $3.4 million player option and chose to become a free agent, I was puzzled.

At that time, he also did something off the court: unfollowing the Nuggets.

He clearly performed well in last season’s playoffs, playing 75 games (36 starts), averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game.

He had highlights in the playoff series against the Clippers—how did it come to this?

Recently, in an interview, Westbrook revealed the truth:

“They didn’t want me back. It wasn’t my decision. They explicitly rejected me, and I never forced myself into any place where I wasn’t wanted.”

Got it, I really misunderstood the ‘God Turtle.’

In NBA contracts, Westbrook does have the right to choose freely.

But if the GM or owner tells you something like: ‘You’re not part of the team next season, even if you stay, you’ll be on the bench!’

Some players might quietly accept it, swallowing their pride, taking the paycheck but not playing.

But Westbrook is definitely not that kind of player.

What kind of personality does this guy have? If he’s not welcomed here, he’ll find somewhere else to be himself.

That’s why his time with the two LA teams was also unhappy:

“Honestly, I’ve always been unique, but they never put me in a special role; the position I played wasn’t really mine.”

You expect Westbrook to feel wronged? To compromise? To calmly accept it?

Please, that’s not Westbrook at all.

So, when he recorded another triple-double yesterday, I truly felt happy for him.

I’ve said before, I really enjoy watching Westbrook’s games.

If I had to subscribe to one player’s membership, it would probably be his.

At middle age, tired from work, seeing the 37-year-old Westbrook still tireless, pouring all his passion into life and basketball.

Running all over the court without any sign of fatigue, he doesn’t seem like he’s 37.

That immense enthusiasm isn’t something all players have; or rather, his style is something the basketball world nowadays seriously lacks.

Tell me, when we watch games, is it only about winning or losing?

Often, it’s about the joy we get from it.

Do you watch Westbrook’s games to eat more lunch, or to watch free throws?

Today, I won’t go into all the explosive stats he’s putting up with the Kings.

Honestly, if you’re a Westbrook fan, you clearly and rationally understand:

He’s trending now because of good performances, but in the future, he’ll definitely be called into meetings for “brain fumbles” and poor play.

Lacking basketball IQ, playing selfishly, not passing, making many mistakes... that’s been his pattern these years.

Westbrook will surely hurt the Kings at times.

But that’s okay.

Don’t expect Westbrook to change now; if he were going to change, it would have happened at 27, not at 37.

Loving something means more than just loving its wins and losses; it’s about loving its spirit.

Personality is everyone’s unique foundation; cherishing those who are genuine and don’t follow the crowd is especially rare.

Why isn’t the NBA as interesting as before? One big reason is fewer players with character.

Westbrook doesn’t have many friends.

But living true to yourself is truly refreshing!