It was admirable that the Denver Nuggets, a team with such a shallow roster, were able to push the 68-win Oklahoma City Thunder to a seventh game in their Western Conference semifinal clash. But with Aaron Gordon dealing with a hamstring strain that would keep him out for an extended period under regular circumstances,

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) reacts after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half during game one

Now throw that context into the career of a 17-year veteran like the Denver Nuggets' Russell Westbrook. The explosive, still useful, and still volatile guard is a no-doubt future Basketball Hall of Famer. However, he has yet to win an NBA championship at 36 years old, and you have to imagine that's quite frustrating in itself.