With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the free-throw line, Westbrook's entrance usurped the MVP chants into a standing ovation. Since being traded in 2019, OKC crowds have always given the former MVP winner an ovation. But doing it in the playoffs rubbed some folks the wrong way.

Denver Nuggets star Russell Westbrook has made an announcement on his social media. Amid the ongoing second-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook has launched an AI-driven startup, Eazewell, along with former NBA All-Star Kemba Walker and longtime friend Donnell Beverly Jr.

But the idea that the Nuggets can upset the Thunder would be crazy talk without Westbrook. Against the league’s deepest team, Westbrook is akin to a judge, alone on the bench. Peyton Watson might get a block, and Julian Strawther might make a shot, but Westbrook is the only reserve who can be trusted.