Russell Westbrook has struggled lately, causing many to speculate that he may be on the decline. Considering his contract situation, and that Paul George is locked up, should the OKC Thunder try to trade Russ?

No. The answer is no. The OKC Thunder should not try to trade Russell Westbrook.

In fact, how could you even suggest – oh, wait, that was me – how could I even suggest such a thing? Russ has not shot the ball well since returning from the ankle injury he suffered in November, this is true.

In those 18 games, he’s shot only 39.3 percent from the field, which includes 27.8 percent from three. He’s managed only a disgusting 59.8 percent from the free throw line (including an airball). He’s averaged a mediocre 18.7 points in those games. He’s also adding 11.7 rebounds, 10.8 assists, and 2.9 steals, but who’s counting? The Thunder are also 11-7 in those games, a 50-win pace, but who’s keeping track?

18 games. Eight. Teen.

Most of us (my apologies if you can’t), can count to more than that on our fingers and toes, and yet there are those (trust me, there are those) who would say (do say) that now is the time to sell on Russell Westbrook.

Allow me to take a moment to speak directly to any reader who is suggesting, thinking, or even ruminating on the possibility of trading Russell Westbrook. If that isn’t you: firstly, I love you most of all. Secondly, you can skip forward 386 words, one video, and one header (basically one slide). I’ll meet you over there.

(You actually might want to watch the video though.)’