The stakes were clear. Russell Westbrook needed 16 rebounds tonight to average a triple-double for the season.
Of course, he was going to get it.
The only surprise was how quickly. He grabbed his 16th rebound early in the third quarter, his Thunder up big on the lowly Grizzlies.
Debate the significance of his accomplishment – just the third triple-double-average season in NBA history, joining himself last year and Oscar Robertson in 1961-62. But also recognize Westbrook was talented and driven enough to make history. That in itself is impressive.
Westbrook has had a very good season. He didn’t need to average a triple-double to confirm that. And though he won’t repeat as MVP, it’s the type of benchmark that could earn him down-ballot votes and extra All-NBA consideration.