Westbrook's first two possessions were undoubtedly a disaster.
He got stripped, then had two straight shots blocked. If this were a video game, a blue cold-streak icon would definitely have popped up.
But in a real game, it was about more than just having a cold hand.
Westbrook now also had to overcome immense psychological pressure.
Link's defense had shattered all of Westbrook's plans. His trademark drives and kick-out passes could no longer play to their strengths.
Westbrook's only option now was to force Link into switching, just like Harden and the Warriors players did!
Only by drawing Link away would he stand even the slightest chance.
It was somewhat like running away, but given the current situation, it was the smartest move.
So on the next possession, Roberson set a screen for Westbrook near midcourt, forcing Link and Conley to switch.
The "Turtle's" plan worked. Conley had no choice but to face Westbrook. Thunder No. 0 immediately regained his confidence. He was determined to return all the frustration from the last two possessions!
"I didn't expect Russell to choose the switch so early. It seems he knows he can't keep playing Link like this." Hubie Brown was somewhat disappointed. He had thought this man who averaged a triple-double would have more backbone.
Of course, there was nothing wrong with choosing a more efficient way to attack.
Westbrook signaled for everyone to clear out. Conley was no slouch defensively, of course. But just like Thompson, being merely decent was nowhere near enough to contain someone on the Most Valuable Player Award leaderboard.
Once his teammates had spaced the floor, Westbrook exploded into a drive with a simple crossover.
For Conley, Westbrook's first step was already difficult to handle.
And his increasingly terrifying physical strength put Conley at an even greater