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LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 25: A close up shot of Kendrick Perkins on court before the LA Clippers game against the Los Angeles Lakers on December 25, 2019 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Chris Elise/NBAE via Getty Images)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/MBREOPQMLOVFXHKSZVB6MTLFLY.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 25: A close up shot of Kendrick Perkins on court before the LA Clippers game against the Los Angeles Lakers on December 25, 2019 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Chris Elise/NBAE via Getty Images)
It has been four years since Russell Westbrook made an All-Star appearance and 5 since he left the OKC Thunder. While he saw an improved stint with the Clippers, his steady decline in performance following his prime years with the franchise of 11 years hasn’t gone unnoticed. However, that seems to have got nothing on the Boston Celtics legend Kendrick Perkins who continues to place Westbrook in high regard.
Perkins shared a video of Russell Westbrook’s highlights on X, captioning it, “One of the Greatest Point Guards to ever lace them up.” The post showed Westbrook in his prime with the OKC performing his best dunks. The point guard had 3 seasons averaging triple-doubles per game therein and just one more with the Wizards the next year. All things considered, Perkins has kept Westbrook’s name among the top and not just once.
One of the Greatest Point Guards to ever lace them up. https://t.co/jnpUOv1Onf
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) July 25, 2024
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Polls of the day
Poll 1 of 5
Do you agree with Kendrick Perkins' praise of Russell Westbrook despite his recent decline?
Absolutely
Not at all
Somewhat
Undecided
Who will make a bigger impact at the Paris 2024 Olympics?
Yuki Togashi
Victor Wembanyama
Both equally
Neither
Whats your Perspective on:
Steph Curry the best PG ever? What about Magic Johnson and his legendary career?
Have an interesting take?
What do you think is the most intriguing aspect of Kendrick Perkins' family life?
His relationship with Vanity Alpough
His kids' future in sports
How he balances family and career
His off-court controversies
Do you think trading for Lauri Markkanen is a smart move for the Warriors?
Yes, he’s a great fit
No, it’s too risky
Only if the price is right
Absolutely not, keep the current roster
In 2023, Perkins included Westbrook in his top 5 point guards list, ranking him fifth. The first was of course Stephen Curry, followed by Magic Johnson, Isiah Thomas, and John Stockton. For his 2023 season, Brodie averaged 17 points and 6.3 rebounds, compared to 15.9 and 5.8 with the Lakers the previous year. The latter of which became of point of feud between Perkins and the Thunder star.
Kendrick Perkins’ praise and criticism on Russell Westbrook
In 2022, Russell Westbrook found himself in a challenging position with the Los Angeles Lakers, and Kendrick Perkins was vocal about it. On ESPN’s First Take, Perkins commented, “Russ’ behavior is coming cancerous to the team,” highlighting the growing tension surrounding Westbrook’s performance and attitude.
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Moreover, Perkins emphasized that Westbrook’s attitude on the bench was problematic. He noted how Westbrook was often moping, complaining, and making snide remarks under his breath. These actions, according to Perkins, contributed to a negative atmosphere within the team, further complicating Westbrook’s situation. Perkins revealed Westbrook, who also happens to be the godfather to his middle child, had stopped talking to him over that.
What’s your perspective on:
Steph Curry the best PG ever? What about Magic Johnson and his legendary career?
Have an interesting take?
However, Perkins has also shown significant praise for Westbrook on various occasions. In 2023, after Westbrook moved to the Los Angeles Clippers, Perkins remarked on ESPN that he had the potential to show the that could be the missing piece on a contender team. Perkins even stated that he felt Westbrook was an upgrade from John Wall and Reggie Jackson, recognizing his potential impact on a new team.
Interestingly, despite his criticism, Perkins’ respect for Westbrook’s talent and contributions remains evident.
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Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.
Debate
Steph Curry the best PG ever? What about Magic Johnson and his legendary career?