Michael Malone had Russell Westbrook's back after his missed layup and late foul on Nickeil Alexander-Walker helped sink the Nuggets vs. the Timberwolves.

Russell Westbrook is sure to get put under a microscope after this one. The all-time great point guard finished the night with a respectable 12 points, seven assists, six rebounds, two blocks, and one steal.

It was he who called this a rivalry in March, lending credibility to the observation shared by Malone and Munson. If the Timberwolves are approaching these games like the Nuggets are their rivals, then, does that mean the matchup has officially earned that title?