LOS ANGELES — They spoke over the summer about Russell Westbrook “being above average defensively,” and after seeing the veteran guard compete on the defensive end Thursday night against the Clippers, Lakers coach Darvin Ham was assured that his message had gotten across.
Even when it appeared he was overmatched by 6-foot-8 Paul George and the 6-7 Kawhi Leonard, the 6-3 Westbrook refused to back down on his defensive assignment.
Westbrook had five steals, three in the fourth quarter, to help the Lakers stay close and have a chance.
