Russell Westbrook took pride in leading by example as the Washington Wizards upset the form book with a 131-122 win over the Utah Jazz.

Westbrook became the first player in Wizards' franchise history to record 35 points, 15 rebound and 10 assists in a game.

The nine-time All Star's 13th triple-double of the season and Bradley Beal's 43-point haul inspired Washington to break a five-game losing streak.

They were also mired in a nine-game slump against Utah, who have now lost four of six this month but still boast the NBA's best overall record of 29-11.

"It's part of my job, it's part of leadership, as the season goes on you figure out what you need to do in certain games and certain nights," Westbrook told reporters.

"I make sure I do my part and can bring my team-mates along, win or lose."

Westbrook was shown putting these words into practice after power forward Rui Hachimura was stripped by Jazz centre Derrick Favors before being able to get shot off in the first quarter.

During the next huddle, Westbrook gave Hachimura some pointers and could be seen instructing the 23-year-old to keep the ball higher up at various points for the remainder of the contest.

"It takes time. When you get to a new team you have an opportunity to learn about a person, not just about basketball," said Westbrook, who was traded to Washington from the Houston Rockets in December.

"Leadership starts off the floor. On the court I might see things that can help him out, but for me I want to be the lead and leave an imprint on the people I meet.

"It takes a little time, to understand what he likes and what he doesn't like, where he's comfortable and isn't comfortable – not just on the court but talking to him off the floor, explaining the game and understanding things he may or may not know

"He's young and I've been in the league for some time and know a little bit more about the games, the ups and downs and that's part of my job as a leader."