NBA Analysts Gives Russell Westbrook a ‘C’ Grade for Wizards’ Debut

It took little time for Russell Westbrook to live up to the hype that came with his trade to the Washington Wizards. After having a disappointing one-year stint with the Houston Rockets, Westbrook was traded this offseason in exchange for John Wall. Although Wall was dear to all Wizards’ fans, everybody was intrigued to see how Westbrook would fit next to Bradley Beal.

Even though they lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in their season opener, Westbrook made history by being the first Wizards’ player to record a triple-double in his season debut. They didn’t lose terribly, and it also showed the franchise has hopes of landing a place in the playoffs.

Is the John Wall trade paying off?

Wall hadn’t played an NBA game for almost two years. His injuries were impacting the Wizards from getting ahead. Though he was predicted to make his return this season, there was no guarantee if he would bring the same value as before.

However, things might be looking up for Wizards. They did lose to the Wizards by six points, but Harden’s name on the scoreboard stole the show. He finished with 21 points, 11 assists, and 15 rebounds. Does this mean Washington can finally count itself as a contender in the East? NBA Analysts Shannon Sharpe and Skip Bayless still don’t think so.

Russell Westbrook can only take them so far

While everyone is raving about Westbrook’s stellar performance, the analysts on Undisputed have another opinion altogether. Bayless talked about how he liked watching Beal and Westbrook together because that’s all there is. “What’s it going to get you? It’s going to get you the joy of watching them play together because if you’re a Wizards’ fan. You’re not going to make it.”

Making his prediction, he claimed, “Can the Wizards get in the play-in tournament? I don’t think they’re going to finish 8th in the East.”

Shannon Sharpe went down to comparing him to players like LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Not impressed with Russell’s record, he stated, “I thought he played okay, so I’ll give him a C. He had 21 points but took 22 shots. You shouldn’t have more shots than points. He’s never going to an efficient guy like LeBron or KD.”

Are these two right? Was he scoring a triple-double a fluke and the Wizards can’t rely on him? Or will he prove everyone wrong and actually lead the team to a playoff appearance after two years?