The Denver Nuggets are undergoing a significant transformation this offseason, blending seasoned experience with youthful vigor. Central to this retooling effort is the acquisition of 35-year-old former MVP Russell Westbrook, marking a notable shift from last season's familiar squad.
Westbrook, now in his 17th year in the NBA, joins the Nuggets following a stint with the LA Clippers where he averaged 11 points, five rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. Despite playing just over 22 minutes per game, his impact was palpable. His shooting splits during his tenure with the Clippers were 45% from the field, 27% from three-point range, and 69% from the free-throw line.
Denver's head coach, Michael Malone, is optimistic about the energy and leadership that Westbrook brings. "Russ is a game-changer. You just love the energy, the voice. You can hear Russ coming," Malone noted. His enthusiasm for Westbrook is echoed in his praise for the veteran's work ethic. "First guy in the gym -- he was here working out at 8 a.m. today. For a 17-year vet that's accomplished everything he's accomplished, I just love the intangibles that he brings to us. I think that's gonna raise the bar. We're gonna be a more competitive team because of that. He's gonna push guys, he's gonna challenge guys, and challenge me. And I think we're all excited for that."
Joining a Nuggets team that is in the midst of reconfiguration, Westbrook is expected to back up 27-year-old Jamal Murray. This pairing offers a promising blend of seasoned resilience and youthful dynamism. While Westbrook's shooting percentages from last season indicate room for improvement—with 27% from behind the arc and 37% from mid-range—his ability to excel in specific areas, like cuts where he ranked in the 64th percentile, showcases his potential to adapt and thrive in new roles.
A Different Energy
Westbrook’s arrival has already begun to shift the team's culture. Veteran center DeAndre Jordan emphasized this change, stating, "Russ brings a different culture and a different mindset to a team -- a different energy." Jordan sees Westbrook as a critical component in energizing both ends of the floor. "I think that he's gonna be that burst of energy that we need on both sides of the floor."
As an embodiment of competitive spirit, Westbrook himself comments on his approach to the game. "I think that people confuse intensity with competitiveness," he explained. "When I compete, when I'm on the floor, I don't want to be walking around shaking hands, kissing babies -- I don't really want to do that. I'm there to -- excuse my language, but, kick some ass."
Gratitude and Determination
Westbrook’s journey to Denver is marked by tenacity and a consistent drive to compete at the highest level. "When I am competing, I want to compete at the highest level, and that part of me will never change as long as I'm competing in this game. And I'm grateful for the opportunity," he shared.
The Nuggets are betting on this relentless drive to propel them forward, aiming to harness Westbrook's veteran savvy and competitive edge to foster a more intense and determined team environment. As the team looks to integrate Westbrook’s unique skill set and leadership into their framework, the upcoming season promises to unfold with a mix of fervor and strategic precision, driven by one of the NBA's most dynamic players.