Gilbert Arenas is fed up with the criticism surrounding Russell Westbrook and he wants everyone to know it.
During his show, Arenas talked about how people are dismissing Westbrook’s impressive triple-double record and how haters are trying to downplay his talent and legacy.
Westbrook currently holds the record for the most triple-doubles in NBA history, but Arenas believes that fact is often overlooked.
“It’s strange because some are trying to diminish his triple-doubles by saying it was too easy for him,” said Arenas on Gil’s Arena. “He’s making history, and when people have idols, it’s hard for them to accept change. By questioning the validity of his stats, they are disrespecting a man who is achieving incredible things. Those same people who vote for MVP have the power to influence your legacy, so if you don’t cater to them, they can affect your reputation. That’s the issue with sports.”
Even before the new season has started, the lack of respect for Westbrook is already evident.
An ESPN football commentator recently criticized Russ, prompting Westbrook’s wife Nina to publicly defend him.
Additionally, Russ’s career three-point shooting percentage was brought up on Brian Windhorst’s podcast, The Hoop Collective.
Windhorst commented, “I personally wouldn’t recommend letting him take any more three-point shots.”
Last season with the Clippers, Westbrook shot 27.3 percent from three-point range and 45.4 percent from the field.
As he prepares to play for the Nuggets for the first time in the 2024-25 season, Westbrook will be aiming to improve his shooting percentages.
Overall, Westbrook currently has a career shooting percentage of 30.4 percent.
