NBA: Player Rankings – Week 5

14. Russell Westbrook (PG, Oklahoma City Thunder)  

Nov 29, 2013; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook (0) attempts a shot against Golden State Warriors small forward Draymond Green (23) during the fourth quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Everyone stand and welcome Russell Westbrook back to the top 20 list! After starting the season in a suit and tie on the end of the bench, Westbrook has worked his way back to healthy and once again solidified his position as one of the best players in the league. So far this season, Westbrook has averaged 21.3 points, 5.3 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game. It was very clear how important he was to the Thunder after he went down with a knee injury during the playoffs last season. While teams double- and triple-teamed Kevin Durant, Westbrook was forced to remain on the bench while watching his team get bounced in the second round by a team that simply was not better than them. This season the formula is simply, Westbrook and Durant take around the same amount of shots per game and everything will be fine. So far, so good for the 12-3 Thunder. If they wish to continue their success, Russell Westbrook needs the ball in his hands.