Since the start of the New Year, Russell Westbrook has been on another level, scoring more than 32 points per game as the Houston Rockets have begun to take shape with all of their new roster pieces. While James Harden is a great offensive threat, Westbrook’s intensity and will to win seems to be a driving force on this version of the Rockets.

“(Westbrook) is probably more of their inspirational leader,” Pierce said. “But we know what Harden is capable of. He’s still averaging 35 a night.”

In the grand scheme of things, both Westbrook and Harden will need to step up come playoff time if this team is going to make a run to the Finals, and both players will get their shine if they can rise to the occasion.