James Harden Reacts to Russell Westbrook's Injury
The LA Clippers announced on Friday night that point guard Russell Westbrook had suffered a fractured left hand. The injury came in the first half of LA's win over the Washington Wizards when Westbrook attempted a steal against Jordan Poole.
Speaking with reporters after the game, Clippers star James Harden said, "I don't know what's going on. I didn't even know. [We'll miss] everything he brings to the game. His athleticism, his energy, his playmaking ability, his leadership."
Harden added that it will be a collective effort between himself and the rest of LA's roster to make up Westbrook's production, primarily in transition. Westbrook has brought a lot to the Clippers this season, serving as their backup point guard, a role that requires him to often change the makeup of a game immediately upon checking in.
While Westbrook's offensive output is always a focus, his defense has been huge for the Clippers this season, holding opponents to 43.2% from the field. Among all players in the NBA this season who have defended as many shots as Westbrook, his defensive field goal percentage is 14th in the NBA, and first on the Clippers.
LA now has a lot to figure out rotationally, as Bones Hyland will take Westbrook's minutes, but the rotation will likely take more altering than just a Hyland for Westbrook swap.
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