Russell Westbrook Continues to Dominate with Triple-Doubles
Russell Westbrook, also known as “Mr. Triple-Double,” has solidified himself as one of the greatest players in NBA history with his incredible ability to consistently record double digits in points, rebounds, and assists per game. From the 2016-17 season until the 2018-19 season, and again in the 2021-22 season, Westbrook achieved this feat. Prior to him, only the legendary Oscar Robertson managed to accomplish the same feat in a single season back in 1961-62 when he played for the Cincinnati Royals.
Not only is Westbrook the career leader in triple-doubles with 198, surpassing Robertson’s 181, but he also holds the record for the most triple-doubles in a single season with 42, breaking Robertson’s 55-year-old record of 41. Westbrook’s remarkable achievements have cemented his legacy as one of the most versatile and impactful players in the history of the game.
During his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook had the potential to achieve five consecutive seasons averaging a triple-double. However, his stint alongside James Harden during his one-year stay with the Houston Rockets hindered his chances of accomplishing this astounding feat. Despite sharing ball-handling duties with Harden, Westbrook still managed to average an impressive 27.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game.
Similar to Westbrook, Oscar Robertson also came close to achieving a triple-double in multiple seasons. In his rookie year, Robertson recorded averages of 30.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game. Over his first five NBA seasons, Robertson maintained averages of 30.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game. The similarities between Westbrook and Robertson highlight their exceptional abilities and impact on the court.
Looking ahead, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets appears to be the next player poised to become a triple-double machine. Jokic, known as “The Joker,” already demonstrated his remarkable all-around skills during the previous season, averaging 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game. Despite falling just short of accomplishing a triple-double average for the season, Jokic’s potential cannot be overlooked.
With his role as the focal point of the Nuggets’ offense, Jokic is expected to continue improving and delivering impressive performances. In just eight seasons, he has already recorded 105 triple-doubles, making him the closest active player to Westbrook’s record. As Jokic enters the upcoming season, he is poised to challenge both Westbrook and Robertson in the triple-double category and potentially establish himself as the heir apparent to Westbrook’s throne.
It is worth noting that despite Jokic’s individual success, basketball is ultimately a team sport. The success of the Nuggets as a whole will heavily influence Jokic’s opportunities to record triple-doubles. Nonetheless, his exceptional skill set and basketball IQ make him a player to watch in future seasons.
In conclusion, Russell Westbrook has made an indelible mark on NBA history with his unparalleled ability to consistently achieve triple-doubles. His records and achievements position him as one of the greatest players to ever step foot on the court. However, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets poses a significant challenge as he continues to showcase his own triple-double potential. As basketball fans, we eagerly await the upcoming season to witness the ongoing battle for dominance in the triple-double category between these two exceptional players.
