Chris Paul Reveals Friendship With Russell Westbrook

Despite being adversaries, Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook are actually friends.

Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook have crossed paths in the NBA Playoffs multiple times before, but despite the on-court battles, the two are friends off the court.

Paul spoke to the media today before facing off against the LA Clippers on Sunday night, where he revealed he's actually close friends with Russell Westbrook. Not only that, but Paul defended Westbrook from his critics.

"I'm really close with Russ, and probably one of his biggest fans just because of the energy that he brings," Paul said. "Everybody wants to talk all that foolishness and whatnot but it's a lot of people that don't love to play the game like him."

Russell Westbrook's addition to the Clippers gives the team a completely different dimension, both good and bad. On one end, the incredibly slow team now has the ability to pick up the pace. On the other end, the Clippers are too old to play at Westbrook's pace. Chris Paul believes Westbrook's addition gives them some much-needed confidence.

"Russ coming in there was just a burst of energy, and I think he gave them guys a lot of confidence," Paul said. "He only plays one way."

Russell Westbrook has not lost a single playoff series against Chris Paul, with victories both during the 2014 playoffs and 2020 playoffs. The Clippers are hoping that streak stays alive this year, too.

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