Russell Westbrook's journey in the NBA has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and tribulations. Now with the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook’s career path has seen him through seasons of adjustments and struggles, most recently with the Los Angeles Clippers. His tenure with the Clippers was marked by a slow, mechanical play style that contrasted starkly with the explosive and dynamic presence that Westbrook is known for.
A Season of Adjustments
During the crucial months of December and January, the Clippers seemed overwhelming in collective talent, notably with Kawhi Leonard’s disciplined approach. However, the Clippers appeared roughly seven points better per 100 possessions without Westbrook on the floor during this period. Westbrook’s challenges culminated when he was benched to make room for James Harden, signaling a significant adjustment period for the seasoned point guard. His struggles were further highlighted by a 26% shooting performance from the floor during a six-game first-round loss to the Dallas Mavericks.
The departure from the Clippers has led Westbrook to a new chapter with the Denver Nuggets, a team less deep but rich with potential and ambition. The Nuggets have Nikola Jokic, widely regarded as the best generator of team offense in basketball, whose synergy with Jamal Murray forms the backbone of Denver's offensive strategy. Yet, the depth issues have been apparent, as evidenced in a Game 7 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where non-Jokic/Murray players could muster only 21 total points.
New Opportunities in Denver
Head Coach Michael Malone has candidly acknowledged the need for "somebody to play behind Jamal Murray." Reggie Jackson, who previously struggled to fill this role effectively in consecutive postseasons, has now departed from the team, making space for Westbrook. The Nuggets have also brought in Dario Saric and will rely more on young talents to fill out their roster. Christian Braun is expected to step into the role left by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, maintaining slightly above league-average shooting percentages at a low volume. Peyton Watson is also anticipated to have a larger role, aligning with Calvin Booth's sustainability plan for the Nuggets.
The challenge for Westbrook will be significant, given his limitations on deep shooting and moving off the ball. However, both Booth and Malone remain optimistic about integrating Westbrook into their system. The Nuggets took the fewest three-pointers in the NBA last season, which means Westbrook’s addition needs to be seamlessly incorporated to avoid disrupting their existing strategy.
The Need for Stability
The ideal solution for Denver might involve a trade, particularly for a more flexible veteran presence. Potential trade packages could include Zeke Nnaji's contract and their 2031 first-round pick. Until such a move materializes, the Nuggets will depend heavily on Westbrook to provide stability and production. The transition will not be without its challenges, but Westbrook’s experience and tenacity could prove invaluable as Denver aims to maintain its competitive edge in a demanding league.
With a less deep roster compared to the Clippers, the Nuggets will have to leverage every ounce of talent and experience within their ranks. As Westbrook steps into a critical role behind Murray, the balance between youth development and veteran experience will be key. The optimism from Booth and Malone indicates faith in Westbrook's ability to adapt and contribute significantly to the Nuggets' success.
The upcoming season will be a crucial period for both Westbrook and the Nuggets. While integrating new elements into their system, the team will look to build on the strengths of Jokic and Murray while ensuring that their bench depth and adaptability are up to the mark. For Westbrook, it’s another opportunity to prove his mettle and contribute to a team with high aspirations.