As Steven Adams pointed out on Tuesday night, he has experience missing free throws. So, Adams jokingly told reporters he used that skill to help out Russell Westbrook.
With just over a minute to go, Westbrook was on the verge of making history. In order to do so, he needed to grab just two more rebounds to record only the second 20-20-20 game in NBA history.
Sensing that he was close, and with the game in hand, Westbrook shook off head coach Billy Donovan to check out of the game in order to chase history. Adams went to the first-throw line and missed both free throws. Westbrook was there for the rebound. That was No. 19.
Just seconds later, on the next trip down the floor for the Los Angeles Lakers, Isaac Bonga missed a 15-footer that bounced right into the arms of Westbrook. And with that, history was made.
As it took a valiant effort on Tuesday night for Westbrook to make history, Adams provided some comedic relief afterward and said he purposely missed the free throws for his teammate.
Adams recorded 13 points, eight rebounds and five blocks during the win over L.A. while he shot 6-of-11 from the field and just 1-of-7 from the free-throw line.
The performance by Westbrook was meaningful for him as he dedicated the night to his fallen friend, and rapper, Nipsey Hussle. Westbrook was hit hard by his death and was understandably emotional afterward.
It certainly won’t be a night that Westbrook forgets …
