Russell Westbrook is the early favorite to capture the 2016 NBA MVP. The star of the Oklahoma City Thunder star recorded his sixth straight triple-double against the struggling Atlanta Hawks by scoring 32 points, grabbing 13 rebounds, and dishing 12 assists.
Westbrook’s sixth straight triple-double is the longest streak since Michael Jordan recorded seven straight in 1989. His streak has kept the Thunder competitive since Kevin Durant’s exit this past summer to sign with the Golden State Warriors. Westbrook’s triple-double helped to lead the Thunder to a victory over the Hawks by a score of 102-99.
The Atlanta Hawks have struggled in the past three weeks and have lost seven straight games. After losing back-to-back games by 40 points or more, the Hawks put up a better effort against the Thunder. Coach Mike Budenholzer changed the starting line-up by benching Kyle Korver for Thabo Sefolosha. The change kept the Hawks completive, but they continued to suffer from inconsistent play by starters Kent Bazemore, who scored 0 points, and Dwight Howard, who only scored six points.
The Hawks began the season at 9-2 and were in second place in the Eastern Conference. However, they have lost 10 games out of 11.
The Hawks will face-off against the Thunder on Dec. 7.
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Photo: Jamie Thompson
