Westbrook takes blame for Thunder's slump: 'I have to set an example'
Russell Westbrook says it's on him to get the struggling Oklahoma City Thunder back on track.
The Thunder fell 121-108 in Orlando on Wednesday after allowing the Magic to shoot 59.2 percent from the field and 43.3 percent from long range en route to snapping their nine-game losing skid.
"It starts with me, man," Westbrook told reporters following OKC's fifth loss in six games.
"It's my responsibility to make sure that we're ready to play, we're ready to play on both sides of the ball to get us out of this funk. We gotta lock in, and it starts with me.
"I take ownership of everything that's going on, because I've been here. I know the standards that we set here in Oklahoma City. I have to set an example. It starts with me and we're gonna turn this thing around."
Mad Westbrook we've seen a bunch. But sad Westbrook, not a whole lot. His demeanor here says it all. #thunder pic.twitter.com/UeutAMZXTa
— Sam Gannon (@SamGannon87) November 30, 2017
Related: How can OKC get its Thunder back?
Despite dealing with a bruised right hand, Russ led the way for the Thunder with 37 points to go along with 11 rebounds, five assists, and five steals. He committed seven turnovers, however, and finished a minus-five.