NBA: Westbrook climbs ladder with 60th career triple-double

Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles during the first half against the LA Clippers at Staples Center on January 16, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. AFP

LOS ANGELES, United States — Russell Westbrook notched the 60th triple-double of his career in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 114-105 victory over New Orleans on Wednesday to pass Larry Bird forth fifth place on the all-time list.

Westbrook posted 27 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists to fuel the Thunder with his 23rd triple-double of the season and his second in three victories over the Pelicans this season.

Despite Westbrook’s effort — and another early injury exit for Pelicans star forward Anthony Davis — New Orleans challenged until the end.

Oklahoma City led by 22 points in the second half but withstood a 9-0 Pelicans scoring run in the fourth quarter that cut the deficit to 105-100 with 5:33 remaining.

Davis reinjured his right thigh late in the second quarter and finished with eight points and five rebounds.

Guard E’Twaun Moore paced the Pelicans with 18 points. CBB