Russell Westbrook's journey in the NBA has been characterized by both triumphs and tribulations. His latest chapter finds him with the Denver Nuggets, a team with aspirations as high as the Rocky Mountains. The move to Denver comes after a season with the Los Angeles Clippers marked by adjustments and struggles, suggesting that Westbrook's career is now in a phase of significant transition.
A Season of Struggle in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Clippers, with their slow, mechanical playstyle, posed unique challenges for Westbrook. Despite the collective talent the team showcased during December and January, with players like Kawhi Leonard adopting a disciplined approach, they faltered when Westbrook was on the floor. The team appeared roughly seven points better per 100 possessions without him. This led to Westbrook being benched to accommodate the arrival of James Harden. His playoff performance, shooting just 26% from the floor in a six-game first-round loss to the Dallas Mavericks, further highlighted his struggles.
Denver’s Depth and Jokic’s Leadership
Westbrook's new team, the Denver Nuggets, present a different set of challenges and opportunities. Unlike the Clippers, the Nuggets boast a less deep roster and rely heavily on Nikola Jokic, widely regarded as the best generator of team offense in basketball. Jokic's synergy with Jamal Murray forms the backbone of Denver's offense. However, the supporting cast has shown limitations, such as in a Game 7 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where non-Jokic/Murray players managed only 21 total points.
Coach Michael Malone has acknowledged the need for "somebody to play behind Jamal Murray," highlighting the void that Westbrook is expected to fill. Reggie Jackson, who previously filled this role, struggled in consecutive postseasons and has since departed from the team. This paves the way for Westbrook to step in and contribute.
New Faces and the Bench Revision
The Nuggets have seen significant roster changes, with the departures of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson, and Justin Holiday. In their place, Denver has brought in Dario Saric and Westbrook. Christian Braun is expected to step into Caldwell-Pope's role, maintaining slightly above league-average shooting percentages, albeit at a low volume. Additionally, Peyton Watson is set for a larger role, aligning with Calvin Booth's sustainability plan for the Nuggets, which relies more heavily on young players.
While Westbrook's limitations in deep shooting and moving off the ball are concerns, both Booth and Malone remain optimistic about integrating him into the system. Malone is compelled to trust in the developing talents within the team, a task that is easier said than done.
Strategies and the Path Forward
The ideal solution for bolstering the Nuggets might involve a trade. A potential trade could involve Zeke Nnaji's contract and their 2031 first-round pick for a more flexible veteran presence. However, until such a trade materializes, the Nuggets depend on Westbrook to provide stability and production. His ability to adapt to Denver's system and support Jokic and Murray will be crucial.
Westbrook's journey is far from over. The fusion of his dynamic style with the disciplined structure of the Nuggets holds promise. Whether this move will lead to triumph or more trials remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Russell Westbrook's impact on the Denver Nuggets will be a story to watch.