Westbrook says he likes to play basketball, not rest
Don't ask Russell Westbrook to rest.
The walking triple-double chimed in on the subject of teams selectively resting healthy players for general maintenance on Wednesday, and unsurprisingly, the hyper-competitive Westbrook didn't like the idea.
"I like to play basketball, so I like to go out and compete and have fun," Westbrook said.
Russell Westbrook on players resting for games (He made sure to correct me, saying he's only rested once): pic.twitter.com/tiHQ5VuFsB
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) March 22, 2017
Having sat out several months with significant knee injuries in past seasons, Westbrook approaches the game with a greater sense of appreciation.
"For me, I look at it differently from being hurt, and missing a lot of games. I embrace every moment. I have an opportunity to play basketball, and I'm enjoying any time I can to get on the floor and play. That's just how I see it."
Resting became a major issue in recent weeks after the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors sidelined their stars during national TV games.