Reflecting on their struggles to find purpose amidst personal pain, Beverly and Westbrook came up with the idea for Eazewell. The tragic loss of their high school peer, Khelcey Barrs III, due to an enlarged heart, continues to impact both Westbrook and Beverly.

But the idea that the Nuggets can upset the Thunder would be crazy talk without Westbrook. Against the league’s deepest team, Westbrook is akin to a judge, alone on the bench. Peyton Watson might get a block, and Julian Strawther might make a shot, but Westbrook is the only reserve who can be trusted.

Westbrook spent the first 11 years of his NBA career with the Thunder after being selected fourth overall by them in the 2008 draft. While he wasn't able to bring a NBA title to Oklahoma City, Thunder fans are forever indebted to Westbrook for making the team fun and exciting to watch.