Russell Westbrook is now 2-for-2 this season in recording triple-doubles. The Washington Wizards guard became the fourth player in NBA history to post triple-doubles in his team’s first two games of the season and first since Magic Johnson did it in 1982-83.
Yet, Westbrook’s efforts were not enough, as the Wizards fell to the Orlando Magic 130-120, dropping them to 0-2 on the season. Westbrook finished the night with 15 points, 15 rebounds and 12 assists. Additionally, Bradley Beal added a game-high 39 points — his second straight 30-point game.
That’s two triple-doubles for Westbrook and two losses for the Wizards thus far.
Westbrook stuffed the stat sheet, but his night wasn’t perfect, especially offensively. The All-NBA guard shot a dismal 6-of-19 from the field, including 0-of-4 from three. He missed seven of his first eight shots. He added five turnovers for his troubles.
Growing pains are expected given the condensed training camp and preseason amid the coronavirus pandemic. Adding such a talent like Westbrook doesn’t cure all automatically from the start. Keep in mind, the Wizards were second-to-last in defensive efficiency last season.
Forward Rui Hachimura has yet to play this season due to an eye infection. Sharpshooter Davis Bertans is on a minutes restriction after arriving to training camp late due to a work visa issue. The shooting woes of Westbrook don’t help matters either.
Still, the early narrative of the 2020-21 season is steering towards a whole lot of stats and not enough wins — none right now.
Washington won’t have much time to sulk on the woes. The Wizards and Magic are slated to tilt Sunday as a part of their back-to-back series. However, Westbrook may not play.
