Russell Westbrook's journey in the NBA has been a blend of triumphs and tribulations, and his recent transition to the Denver Nuggets marks another chapter in his career. Last season saw him grappling with challenges during a stint with the Los Angeles Clippers, a tenure marked by adjustments and struggles.
In Los Angeles, the Clippers' slow, mechanical playstyle posed difficulties for Westbrook, noted for his dynamic and fast-paced approach to the game. Despite the team's overwhelming collective talent during December and January, Westbrook's integration was rocky. The Clippers seemed about seven points better per 100 possessions when he was off the floor. This led to him being benched, particularly to make way for James Harden's arrival. His struggles were evident, including a 26% shooting performance from the floor in a six-game first-round loss to the Dallas Mavericks, signaling a tough period for the seasoned guard.
Now with the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook faces a new set of challenges and opportunities. The Nuggets, known for their reliance on Nikola Jokic, perhaps the best generator of team offense in basketball, and the synergy he has with Jamal Murray, form the backbone of Denver’s attack. However, the team's depth, compared to the Clippers, is noticeably thinner. In a critical Game 7 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the supporting cast beyond Jokic and Murray managed only 21 points.
Addressing this lack of depth, Coach Michael Malone emphasized the need for "somebody to play behind Jamal Murray." The team struggled to find a consistent backup, with Reggie Jackson failing to fill this role effectively in consecutive postseasons. Jackson has since departed, and the Nuggets hope Westbrook can be the stabilizing force they need.
The offseason saw significant changes for the Nuggets. Apart from bringing in Westbrook, they also acquired Dario Saric, while parting ways with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson, and Justin Holiday. These moves align with Calvin Booth's sustainability plan for the team, which increasingly relies on developing young talents. Christian Braun is expected to step into Caldwell-Pope's shoes, offering slightly above league-average shooting percentages, though at low volume, and Peyton Watson is anticipated to have a larger role off the bench.
Despite these strategic moves, Westbrook's known limitations in deep shooting and moving off the ball remain concerns. Nonetheless, both Booth and Malone are optimistic about integrating Westbrook into their system. The need for a veteran presence could potentially see the Nuggets considering further trades. A plausible scenario includes trading Zeke Nnaji's contract and their 2031 first-round pick for a more versatile veteran.
The Nuggets’ system and expectations present a different challenge for Westbrook, who is now tasked with providing stability and production in a team that is intent on maximizing Jokic's exceptional playmaking skills. As the season progresses, it will be crucial to observe how Westbrook adapts and integrates into this new environment. His ability to adjust and deliver could be pivotal for the Nuggets, who are aiming to build on their core strengths while navigating the limitations of their roster depth.
Critics and fans alike will be keenly watching Westbrook's performance in Denver. His journey in the NBA has been marked by highs and lows, and his time with the Nuggets offers a fresh platform to redefine his legacy amidst a roster steered by youth development and strategic plays pivoted around Jokic and Murray's brilliance.