OKC Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sent a clear Russell Westbrook message during the playoff series against the Denver Nuggets.

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.

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