The Denver Nuggets are undergoing significant changes in their roster, weaving a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. The 2023 offseason marked a pivotal point for the franchise, with the front office making the bold decision to overhaul last season's familiar squad and usher in a new era.
Westbrook Joins the Nuggets
The most notable addition to the team is former MVP Russell Westbrook. At 35 years old and entering his 17th year in the NBA, Westbrook brings a wealth of experience and a history of on-court intensity. Fresh off a stint with the LA Clippers, where he averaged 11 points, five rebounds, and 4.5 assists in a little over 22 minutes per game, Westbrook's arrival in Denver signals the team's commitment to infusing veteran leadership into their dynamic.
Head coach Michael Malone is enthusiastic about what Westbrook brings to the table. "Russ is a game-changer. You just love the energy, the voice. You can hear Russ coming," Malone remarked. Highlighting Westbrook’s commitment, Malone noted, "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."
A Different Energy
Westbrook's previous season with the Clippers showed a mixed bag of performance statistics. His shooting splits of 45% from the field, 27% from beyond the arc, and 69% from the free-throw line suggest areas for improvement. Nonetheless, his ability to make cuts, where he ranked in the 64th percentile last season, remains a key strength.
Veteran center DeAndre Jordan acknowledged the unique spark Westbrook brings to the Nuggets. "Russ brings a different culture and a different mindset to a team -- a different energy," Jordan said. "I think that he's gonna be that burst of energy that we need on both sides of the floor."
Westbrook’s competitive edge is well-known throughout the league. Shedding light on his approach to the game, Westbrook stated, "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." His unwavering commitment to excellence is a cornerstone of his playing style. "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."
Fitting into the Nuggets' Puzzle
Westbrook is expected to play a pivotal role as the backup to 27-year-old Jamal Murray. This strategic move aims to balance the roster by combining Murray's prime years with Westbrook's seasoned experience. The duo's synergy will be an interesting subplot as the season unfolds.
Despite some challenges in Westbrook's game, such as his shooting percentages from behind the arc (27%) and mid-range (37%) last season, his ability to excel in certain areas like cutting to the basket remains valuable. His performance in the 24th percentile for shots at the rim indicates there's room for growth, but his versatility and veteran presence could prove to be a stabilizing force for the Nuggets.
With Michael Malone at the helm and a reshaped roster, the Denver Nuggets are poised to enter the new season with high expectations. Westbrook’s integration into the team, coupled with the youthful energy and established talents, sets the stage for a compelling journey ahead.