Russell Westbrook Follows James Harden to Elite NBA Milestone

Russell Westbrook joined the elite company tonight. Westbrook led the Los Angeles Clippers to a dominant 136-125 victory over the Detroit Pistons. The former MVP took over the game and scored 23 points, 9 assists, and 2 rebounds. To add cherry on the cake, Westbrook also crossed 25,000 career points with a smooth layup in the 4th quarter to add another accolade to his Hall of Fame resume.

Westbrook’s historic achievement comes just 2 months after his teammate James Harden reached the same milestone. Harden hit his 25,000th career point in December during a game against the Warriors. Harden went off for 28 points, 15 assists, and 7 rebounds in that game to lead the Clippers to a 121-113 victory.

After joining Harden in an elite company, Westbrook was subbed out of the game to soak in the moment. Russ immediately dabbed up The Beard on his way to the bench. Westbrook has become the 4th active player to score 25,000+ career points alongside LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and James Harden.

The Clippers desperately needed Russ to perform well tonight because their starters were not playing up to the mark. Harden had an off night and finished with an abysmal stat line of 4 points, 6 assists, and 3 rebounds.

Newly named All-Star Reserve Paul George was also limited to only 18 points and 7 assists. Kawhi Leonard was the only starter who looked in form. He led the Clippers in scoring with 33 points, 3 assists, and 4 rebounds.

Read More: James Harden Crowned Honorary Clippers All-Star as NBA Legend Gives Russell Westbrook His Flowers Too

Westbrook came off the bench and took the scoring responsibility on his shoulders to support Kawhi on the floor. Russ has settled perfectly into his new role as the bench leader, and his sacrifice might reward the Clippers in the long run.

Russell Westbrook and James Harden are chasing the same goal

With Westbrook and Harden crossing 25,000 career points in the same season, there is not much left to prove for the Former MVPs. They have received countless honors and won all major awards throughout their illustrious careers. And they will be in the Basketball Hall of Fame when it’s all said and done. The only accolade missing from Harden and Westbrook’s resume is an NBA Championship. The two veterans have been chasing their first ring for years, but to no avail.

This season might be Harden and Westbrook’s best chance to win their first title. They are playing with two other future Hall of Famers, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. The Clippers have become one of the best teams in the league after acquiring Harden and making Russ the leader of their second unit. Do you believe the two former MVPs can finally accomplish their goal of winning a championship this season?

Watch This Story: Will Alperen Sengun Become the First All Star Out of Houston Since James Harden?