NBA free agent Russell Westbrook and Philadelphia 76ers veteran Paul George have been two of the league's most polarizing stars over the past decade, with both consistently on the receiving end of criticism for failing to secure a championship between their combined 32 seasons.
Westbrook played a key role in the Denver Nuggets’ 2025 playoff run, which came to an end after falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder in seven games in May. Appearing in 75 regular season meetings, the NBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles averaged 13.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game in the regular season.
George, an eight-time NBA All-Star, is entering his second season of a four-year, $212 million max contract with the 76ers. George appeared in only half of Philadelphia's games this year, averaging 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game while missing out on the postseason.
Despite plenty of accolades between the two former teammates, they've both come up short of the ultimate goal – winning an NBA title. And given their age – Westbrook 36 and George 35 – time might be running out.
Former LA Clippers teammates Russell Westbrook and Paul George Celebrate
Former LA Clippers teammates Russell Westbrook and Paul George Celebrate during game four of the first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
Kevin Jairaj - USA TODAY Sports
NBA journeyman Raymond Felton, a former national championship-winning point guard at UNC and No. 5 overall pick in the 2005 NBA draft to the Charlotte Bobcats, played alongside both George and Wesbtrook in Oklahoma City, didn't hold back when asked about the criticism his former colleagues continue to face.
Felton made his stance clear on a recent podcast appearance, calling out what he sees as unfair shots directed at the two NBA superstars.
“You got these clowns out here who got so much to say about P or Russ,” Felton said. “I know the hard work Russ and PG put in.”
Felton played alongside both during their time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, teaming up with Westbrook and George for two seasons.
On social media, a clip of Felton passionately defending the two stars began to circulate.
Although the narratives surrounding Westbrook and George aren't new, Felton’s message cuts through the noise.