Russell Westbrook's NBA journey has seen a range of highs and lows, and his recent move to the Denver Nuggets adds yet another chapter to his storied career. Following a season of adjustments and struggles with the Los Angeles Clippers, Westbrook now finds himself in a new environment, one marked by both fresh challenges and opportunities.
Westbrook's stint with the Clippers was far from smooth sailing. The team was characterized by its slow, mechanical playstyle last season, which at times seemed to clash with Westbrook's dynamic and fast-paced approach. Despite moments where the Clippers’ collective talent shone, particularly during December and January, the team found itself faring better without Westbrook on the floor. The statistics laid it bare: the Clippers were roughly seven points better per 100 possessions without him. Consequently, Westbrook was benched to make way for James Harden's arrival, an adjustment that could not salvage the Clippers' season, culminating in a first-round playoff loss to the Dallas Mavericks where Westbrook shot a dismal 26% from the floor.
Now in Denver, Westbrook enters a team relying heavily on Nikola Jokic, a player widely regarded as the best generator of team offense in basketball. Jokic’s synergy with Jamal Murray forms the backbone of the Nuggets' offensive strategy. However, the Nuggets' roster depth remains a concern. Coach Michael Malone has openly stated the need for "somebody to play behind Jamal Murray," a role that neither Reggie Jackson nor other recent bench players have effectively filled.
Compounding the Nuggets' challenge is their transition towards a younger bench. Christian Braun is set to step into the role vacated by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, while Peyton Watson is expected to take on increased responsibilities. Despite Braun's slightly above league-average shooting percentages, his lower volume of shots leaves questions about his ability to consistently contribute at a high level.
The departures of key players such as Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson, and Justin Holiday have led to the acquisition of Dario Saric alongside Westbrook. Both newcomers are anticipated to fill crucial gaps in the roster. Nevertheless, it's clear that the Nuggets’ bench will now rely more heavily on its younger talents, aligning with General Manager Calvin Booth's sustainability plan for the team. Coach Malone is compelled to harness and develop these emerging players, a challenge that comes with its own set of risks and rewards.
Westbrook's known limitations in deep shooting and off-the-ball movement present concerns for his integration into the Nuggets' system. Yet, both Booth and Malone remain optimistic about the fit. They believe Westbrook's experience and tenacity could provide the stability and production the team desperately needs off the bench.
There is some speculation that a trade might offer Denver a more flexible veteran presence to better balance the roster. Discussions involve potentially moving Zeke Nnaji's contract along with a 2031 first-round pick. The aim would be to acquire a player who could offer more adaptability, easing some of the burdens currently placed on Westbrook.
Despite these uncertainties, the Nuggets' reliance on their star duo, Jokic and Murray, remains unwavering. Their performance is critical, especially as evidenced by a Game 7 where non-Jokic/Murray players mustered only 21 total points against the Minnesota Timberwolves. For the Nuggets to thrive, Westbrook will need to seamlessly integrate and provide both stability and significant production off the bench.