Russell Westbrook's journey in the NBA has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations, and his recent transition to the Denver Nuggets is no different. After a season with the Los Angeles Clippers filled with adjustments and struggles, Westbrook finds himself in a new environment, one where expectations are high and skepticism lingers.
Struggles in Los Angeles
Westbrook's tenure with the Clippers was a rocky one. Known for their slow, mechanical playstyle, the Clippers seemed to struggle to integrate Westbrook's dynamic, fast-paced approach. During December and January, the team's collective talent was undeniably imposing, especially with Kawhi Leonard exhibiting a disciplined gameplay that suggested a cohesive unit.
However, statistical analysis painted a different picture. The Clippers were notably better — approximately seven points per 100 possessions — without Westbrook on the floor. A telling sign of his struggles was evident during the first-round loss to the Dallas Mavericks, where he shot a mere 26% from the floor over six games. These struggles culminated in Westbrook being benched to make room for James Harden upon his arrival.
A Fresh Start in Denver
Now with the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook is looking for a fresh start, albeit in a system that presents its own unique challenges. Unlike the Clippers, who had a deep roster, the Nuggets rely heavily on a few key players. Nikola Jokic, widely regarded as the best generator of team offense in basketball, and Jamal Murray form the crux of Denver's offensive strategy. This reliance became particularly evident in a Game 7 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where players other than Jokic and Murray could only muster 21 total points.
The departure of Reggie Jackson, who struggled to effectively back up Murray in consecutive postseasons, left a void that Westbrook is now expected to fill. Coach Michael Malone has acknowledged the need for "somebody to play behind Jamal Murray," a role that Westbrook will need to adapt to quickly.
Roster Dynamics and Expectations
The Nuggets' roster has undergone significant changes in recent times. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson, and Justin Holiday are no longer with the team. In their stead, the Nuggets have brought in Dario Saric and Westbrook, while young talents like Christian Braun and Peyton Watson are expected to take on larger roles. Braun, who is expected to step into Caldwell-Pope's role, has maintained slightly above league-average shooting percentages, albeit at a low volume.
These transitions align with Calvin Booth's sustainability plan for the Nuggets, which emphasizes the integration and development of young players. Coach Malone is compelled to utilize these developing talents, making the bench more dependent on younger, less experienced players. This could be a double-edged sword for the team — while it prioritizes long-term growth, it also requires patience and can often result in growing pains.
Westbrook's Integration
The challenges of integrating Westbrook into the Nuggets’ system are evident. His limitations on deep shooting and moving off the ball are well-documented concerns. However, both Booth and Malone remain optimistic about his potential impact. The ideal solution for Denver might even involve a trade, potentially leveraging Zeke Nnaji's contract and their 2031 first-round pick to acquire a more flexible veteran presence.
In a season where the Nuggets took the fewest three-pointers in the NBA, Westbrook's role will be crucial in providing stability and production. Despite his recent struggles, his experience and dynamic play could bring a new dimension to the Nuggets, especially if he can adapt to their system and work effectively alongside Jokic and Murray. The upcoming season will be a critical one for Westbrook and the Nuggets, as they look to solidify their place among the NBA's elite.