On Friday night, the Denver Nuggets played the Oklahoma City Thunder (at home) for Game 3 of their second-round playoff series. The Nuggets won by a score of 1

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.

Jalen Williams, who now plays the role of star for the Thunder in Westbrook's place, shared a message with the former MVP amid their series. Williams, who is on the younger side of stars in this league at 24 years old, spent a significant time of his days growing up and watching Westbrook as one of the featured players in the NBA.