Russell Westbrook posted another one of his patented triple-doubles against the San Antonio Spurs, but this team something different stood out. He posted 24 assists in the game with only three turnovers, repeatedly passing up shots of his own for even better looks for his teammates.

Westbrook’s usual aggressive offensive style has been quite effective, but this new style has elevated a Thunder team that many people thought would not be much of a factor in the Western Conference this season.

“I like that he’s deferring to Paul George and other guys even more than in the past,” Pierce said.