Russell Westbrook's NBA journey has truly embodied both the highs and lows of professional basketball. Most recently, his tenure with the Los Angeles Clippers was a period marked by necessary adjustments and notable struggles. Known for their slow, mechanical playstyle, the Clippers demonstrated overwhelming talent, particularly during December and January. Under Kawhi Leonard's disciplined approach, the team seemed nearly seven points better per 100 possessions without Westbrook on the floor.
During this time, Westbrook found himself benched, making way for the arrival of James Harden. This change, however, did not yield the desired results in the postseason. Westbrook's 26% shooting during a six-game first-round loss to the Dallas Mavericks starkly highlighted his difficulties in adapting to his new role.
Transition to Denver Nuggets
Now, Westbrook has embarked on a new chapter with the Denver Nuggets, a team that contrasts sharply with the Clippers in both roster depth and playstyle. The Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokic—widely considered the best generator of team offense in basketball—alongside the dynamic Jamal Murray, form a potent offensive duo. However, Denver's bench lacks the depth that characterized the Clippers.
In a crucial Game 7 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, non-Jokic/Murray players contributed just 21 total points, underscoring the need for more reliable depth. Recognizing this gap, Coach Michael Malone has stated the necessity for "somebody to play behind Jamal Murray," a role former Nugget Reggie Jackson struggled to fill in consecutive postseasons. Jackson has since departed from the team, making way for Westbrook's arrival.
Roster Changes and New Additions
In addition to acquiring Westbrook, the Nuggets have made several other roster changes. Last season, the team took the fewest three-pointers in the NBA, losing key players such as Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson, and Justin Holiday. To fill these gaps, Denver has brought in Dario Saric alongside Westbrook. Meanwhile, Christian Braun is expected to step into Caldwell-Pope's role, having maintained slightly above league-average shooting percentages, albeit at a low volume.
Peyton Watson is also anticipated to have a larger role in the upcoming season, aligning with General Manager Calvin Booth's sustainability plan for the Nuggets. This shift signifies a more significant reliance on young players, compelling Coach Malone to utilize and develop these talents more effectively.
Westbrook's Role and Potential Trades
Despite the optimism surrounding his integration, Westbrook’s known limitations in deep shooting and off-ball movement remain concerns for the team. Both Booth and Malone are hopeful about effectively integrating him into Denver's system, though they recognize the necessity for adaptability. The ideal resolution for the Nuggets might involve a trade to secure a more flexible veteran presence, possibly involving Zeke Nnaji's contract and their 2031 first-round pick.
Nonetheless, until such a trade materializes, Denver is depending on Westbrook to provide stability and production from the bench. His performance will be crucial in determining whether he can fill the void behind Murray and help the Nuggets combat their depth issues, ultimately striving for success in the highly competitive Western Conference.
As the Nuggets navigate these changes, Westbrook's journey offers both a challenge and an opportunity. Integrating his experience and dynamic playstyle could be the key to unlocking new potential for Denver, whose ambitions rest heavily on finding the perfect equilibrium between their star players and emerging young talents.