4 Years After Annihilating Paul George and Russell Westbrook, Damian Lillard Gives Two Cents on Ex-OKC Thunder Star

Damian Lillard etched his name in history when he hit one of the most iconic Game-winning 3-pointers over Paul George to eliminate the OKC Thunder from the 2019 playoffs. With 2 seconds left on the clock and the score tied at 115, Dame rose from the Blazers logo and hit a buzzer-beater to send Russell Westbrook and Paul George packing. That shot was heard around the world and solidified Lillard as one of the most clutch players in NBA history.

4 years after the iconic shot, Lillard shocked the world when he picked his arch-nemesis over some of the best players in the league.

Damian Lillard picks the Former OKC star over NBA Greats

In the latest episode of the It Is What It Is Podcast, Damian Lillard was asked about the top 3 players he has played against in his 11-year career. Lillard picked Kyrie Irving and Stephen Curry as his Top 2. But his third pick shocked the entire world. Dame chose his arch nemesis who he sent home in the 2019 playoffs, Russell Westbrook. The two superstars have a lot of animosity, considering their playoff history, and they have constantly butted heads throughout their careers.

In his 11-year career, Lillard has played against several All-time Guards, including Chris Paul and James Harden. So, it was great to see the 7-time All-Star giving Mr. Triple Double his flowers despite their on-court differences.

Russell Westbrook deserves the praise

Even though it might come as a surprise to many that Lillard picked Russ as one of his Top 3 opponents, his point makes sense, considering Westbrook?s illustrious career. Russ was a beast in his prime and averaged a triple-double in three different seasons with the Thunder. He achieved the same feat during his time in Washington. Westbrook was named the 2017 MVP after becoming the first player to average a triple-double for a season since Oscar Robertson in 1962.

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Beastbrook is arguably the most athletic guard in NBA history, and his dunking highlights are a treat to watch. Even at 34 years old, Westbrook is helping his team win in the playoffs. He is part of the Los Angeles Clippers squad and helped them stay afloat in the first round of the 2023 playoffs when their two superstars, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George were hurt.

With Damian Lillard looking to switch teams and PG and Russ playing on the same team in LA, we might see the two superstars going head-to-head one more time in the playoffs.

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