The Denver Nuggets have taken a bold step this offseason, deciding to retool their roster by blending veteran experience with youthful energy. Significant changes are on the horizon for the Nuggets as they aim to build on past successes and push deeper into the playoffs. One of the biggest moves the Nuggets front office made was bringing in 35-year-old former MVP Russell Westbrook.
Westbrook, entering his 17th year in the NBA, adds a new dimension to the Nuggets lineup. Having left the LA Clippers, where he averaged 11 points, five rebounds, and 4.5 assists in just over 22 minutes per game, Westbrook arrives in Denver with a wealth of experience and a reputation for his intense competitiveness.
A New Era with Westbrook
The decision to onboard Westbrook marks a strategic shift for the Nuggets. Head coach Michael Malone expressed his enthusiasm for the veteran guard, highlighting not just his on-court skills but also the intangible qualities he brings to the team. "Russ is a game-changer. You just love the energy, the voice. You can hear Russ coming," Malone said. Westbrook's presence in the gym has already been noted, with Malone observing, "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."
Westbrook's shooting percentages last season showed some areas for improvement—45% from the field, 27% from the three-point line, and 69% from the free-throw line. His shot accuracy, particularly from behind the arc and mid-range, could be pivotal for the Nuggets, as they look to enhance their offensive arsenal.
Veteran Leadership and Competitive Edge
DeAndre Jordan, another seasoned member of the Nuggets roster, highlighted the cultural shift Westbrook promises to bring. "Russ brings a different culture and a different mindset to a team -- a different energy," Jordan stated. Emphasizing the impact of Westbrook's approach, he added, "I think that he's gonna be that burst of energy that we need on both sides of the floor."
Westbrook's competitive nature has always been a defining aspect of his career. He himself noted, "I think that people confuse intensity with competitiveness. 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."
Expectations and Roles
The veteran guard's role with the Nuggets is expected to be dynamic, functioning primarily as a backup to the 27-year-old Jamal Murray. Westbrook has excelled in certain areas, ranking in the 64th percentile for cuts last season, despite being in the 24th percentile for shots at the rim.
"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," Westbrook affirmed. "And I'm grateful for the opportunity."
With Westbrook on board, the Nuggets hope to see a blend of his veteran savvy and the youthful prowess of their existing core come together harmoniously. As Malone succinctly put it, "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."
As the Denver Nuggets move forward into the season, one thing is clear: the energy and intensity Russell Westbrook brings, combined with the strategic vision of the Nuggets’ front office, has set the stage for an exciting and potentially transformative journey. The fans and the franchise alike will be watching closely to see how this new dynamic unfolds on the court.