As Thunderous Intentions noted in the OKC Thunder post-game grades the final games played prior to the break are often the most difficult of the season. For the Thunder, that situation was pronounced as the Thunder was on the road playing a disenchanted Pelicans team in the very last match of all teams entering the All-Star break.
Fans wouldn’t know that was the case if they focused solely on Russell Westbrook who gave his typical 100 percent effort. In fact, while some of the Brodie’s teammates appeared to have visions of holiday plans dancing in their heads Westbrook was delivering his highest scoring effort of the season.