DALLAS – On the most crucial defensive possession of the game, Victor Oladipo played cornerback, and Russell Westbrook provided safety help over the top.
Oladipo was glued to Dallas’ JJ Barea, and as the veteran Mavericks guard raced to midcourt to receive an inbounds pass, Westbrook was there to apply the pressure. The connection couldn’t be made, the ball tipped out to the Thunder and a collective unease fell over the Dallas crowd. It was the one final sliver of hope Westbrook and his team needed.
“You have to make winning plays. The game of basketball is not just about scoring,” Westbrook said.