Kyle Lowry and Russell Westbrook step away from the court as NBA guard era shifts

Kyle Lowry announced his retirement from playing on July 7, and Russell Westbrook announced his on August 12. The two guards, known as defining NBA players of the 2010s, are leaving the court in the same summer.

As the Raptors' floor general, Lowry helped lead the team to its first championship in 2019. Westbrook was named the 2017 NBA MVP and is known for averaging a triple-double over a full season. Both were praised for their scoring, athleticism and decision-making that could change the flow of a game.

A guard is a position responsible for bringing the ball up the court and getting teammates involved. Beyond scoring, guards are expected to contribute across the board, including passing and rebounding.

A triple-double is a record in which a player reaches double figures in points, rebounds and assists. It is seen as a mark of a player who maintains a high level across several categories, and Westbrook left the record as a symbol of an era in the NBA.

This summer, as these two retire, a new generation of guards is starting the season in new surroundings. Tyrese Haliburton and Ja Morant are prime examples, making this a year when the changing of the guard is clearly visible.

Background

Westbrook is known as a player who averaged a triple-double over a full season. Lowry, as the Raptors' floor general, helped lead the team to its first championship.

Basketball Press view

The retirements of Lowry and Westbrook mark a turning point in the image of NBA guards. Two players judged not only on numbers such as scoring and triple-doubles, but also on their ability to read the flow of a game, are stepping away, and a new generation of guards is moving into the lead. The new season will show how far that transition goes.

Translated from the Japanese article by the Basketball Press editors. AI is used to assist in translation.