Russell Westbrook's NBA career has been a rollercoaster of extraordinary highs and challenging lows. After a season of adjustments and struggles with the Los Angeles Clippers, marked notably by his benching to accommodate James Harden’s arrival and a dismal 26% shooting during a pivotal six-game first-round loss to the Dallas Mavericks, Westbrook finds himself charting a new course with the Denver Nuggets.
Westbrook's Clippers Conundrum
The Los Angeles Clippers, characterized last season by a slow, mechanical playstyle, seemed off to a promising start during December and January. The team’s collective talent appeared overwhelming, especially given Kawhi Leonard's disciplined approach during this period. Interestingly, the Clippers were approximately seven points better per 100 possessions without Westbrook on the floor, indicating significant struggles in his fit with the team's dynamics.
A New Chapter in Denver
Now with the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook is presented with a fresh opportunity to integrate his explosive playing style into a system built around Nikola Jokic, widely recognized as the best generator of team offense in basketball. Jokic’s synergy with Jamal Murray forms the backbone of Denver's offense, but during a Game 7 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the non-Jokic and non-Murray players managed only 21 total points, highlighting the team's need for more depth.
Coach Michael Malone has acknowledged the necessity for "somebody to play behind Jamal Murray," a role that Reggie Jackson struggled to fill effectively over consecutive postseasons.
A Revamped Roster
The Nuggets' offseason moves have seen notable departures, including Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson, and Justin Holiday. To fill these gaps, the team has brought in Dario Saric and Westbrook, with young talents like Christian Braun and Peyton Watson expected to step up. Braun, expected to assume Caldwell-Pope's role, has maintained slightly above league-average shooting percentages, albeit at a low volume, indicating potential but also underscoring the necessity for more reliable veteran contributions.
Challenges and Optimism
One significant concern surrounding Westbrook's integration into the Nuggets is his well-documented limitations in deep shooting and movement off the ball. Despite these challenges, both Booth and Malone express optimism about integrating Westbrook into their system. "We depend on him to provide stability and production," echoes the sentiment prevalent in this fresh start.
However, should Westbrook struggle to fit seamlessly, the Nuggets might explore trade options, potentially involving Zeke Nnaji's contract and their 2031 first-round pick, targeting a more flexible veteran presence that could offer the needed stability off the bench. This calculated move aligns with Calvin Booth's sustainability plan for the Nuggets, prioritizing long-term success without compromising immediate competitive edge.
The Denver Nuggets took the fewest three-pointers in the NBA last season, pointing to an area in need of bolstering if they aim to contend seriously. As the team adjusts to a heavier reliance on young players, the development and immediate contributions of their bench will be crucial. Malone's utilization of developing talents is more than a strategy—it's a necessity propelled by the changing dynamics of the roster.
As Westbrook embarks on this journey with Denver, the hope is that his presence can provide the spark and stability the Nuggets need. If he can adapt and excel in this new environment, the potential for a triumphant turn in his storied career remains within reach. Whether through Westbrook’s rejuvenated performance or strategic trades, the Nuggets are poised to navigate their transition ambitiously, with eyes firmly set on maintaining their competitive stature in the league.