Russell Westbrook is coming for that No. 1 spot.
After going for 21 points, 15 assists and 13 rebounds in the Thunder's 111-107 victory at home against the Rockets, the UCLA product stands just two triple-doubles away from tying Magic Johnson's modern single-season mark of 17, recorded during the 1988-1989 season.
MORE: Classic Westbrook photos | Fashion icon
Tuesday night's triple double was Westbrook's third straight and the fourth in his last five games.
He also did this in a four-on-one situation on the break against former teammate and phantom defender James Harden.
Westbrook dropped 14 points, handed out as many assists and snatched 11 rebounds against the Pacers on Saturday. The night before, he logged 20 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists at the 76ers. Last Monday he scored 17 points to go wtih 16 assists and 10 boards in Boston.
MORE: LA to host '18 ASG
Unlike last season, when the Thunder lost five of their last eight and failed to reach the postseason, Westbrook, aided by a healthy Kevin Durant, has lifted his team. Oklahoma City has won five consecutive games and seven of its last nine contests. It is third in the West, behind the Warriors and the Spurs.
Another opportunity to remind folks that Fat Lever was damn good. pic.twitter.com/KPLCqlpdYf
— Darius Soriano (@forumbluegold) March 23, 2016
Russell Westbrook is 3rd player in last 40 yrs to record 6+ triple-doubles in a calendar month. (via @EliasSports) pic.twitter.com/BTTLNBTcC5
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 23, 2016
Appreciate greatness while it's in your midst.
The Thunder (48-22) will host the Jazz (34-36) on Thursday.