Nikola Jokic has revived Russell Westbrook’s career at the Nuggets.
The resurgence of Russell Westbrook has become one of the most compelling storylines in the NBA this season, and much of the credit goes to Nikola Jokic. Once considered to be on the decline, Westbrook has found new life with the Denver Nuggets, providing the team with a much-needed spark.
Jokic and Westbrook: A Historic Night Against the Nets
On Friday night, the Brooklyn Nets faced off against the Denver Nuggets in Mile High City. While the game was expected to be a dominant showing by the Nuggets, it ended up being a historic night.
Nikola Jokic delivered yet another all-time performance, finishing with 35 points, 12 rebounds, 15 assists, and four steals on 14-of-21 shooting. This marked his 15th triple-double of the season, leading the league in this category. Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook also had a stellar game, recording 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists.
It’s not uncommon for teammates to record triple-doubles in the same game, but this marked the second time this season that Jokic and Westbrook achieved this feat together. In fact, it’s the first time in NBA history that teammates have recorded multiple triple-doubles in the same game during a single season.
Westbrook’s Role in the Nuggets’ Turnaround
The Denver Nuggets entered the 2024-2025 season with high expectations after winning the NBA championship in 2023. However, a lack of depth and injuries to key players, including Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon, led to a shaky 11-10 start. By this point, the Nuggets were ninth in the Western Conference, and their playoff hopes looked uncertain.
Enter Russell Westbrook. After being inserted into the starting lineup, Westbrook has completely turned the Nuggets’ season around. Over the last 17 games, he has averaged 15.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 7.5 assists, shooting .540 from the field. His leadership and playmaking have been instrumental in the team’s 12-5 record during this stretch. When Westbrook starts, the Nuggets have gone 11-2, climbing to a 23-15 overall record and just 2.5 games behind the second seed in the Western Conference.
Nikola Jokic’s Impact on Westbrook’s Revival
Westbrook’s resurgence is a testament to the unique brilliance of Nikola Jokic. Known as one of the most versatile and unselfish players in NBA history, Jokic’s ability to elevate his teammates has been a game-changer for Westbrook.
Since leaving the Washington Wizards, Westbrook struggled to recapture the MVP-level performances that defined his career. However, playing alongside Jokic has allowed him to thrive. Jokic’s court vision and passing ability have created countless opportunities for Westbrook to make an impact, whether as a scorer or a playmaker. Together, they’ve formed a dynamic duo that has reinvigorated the Nuggets and solidified their status as contenders.
The Road Ahead for the Nuggets
With the dominance of the Oklahoma City Thunder this season, the Nuggets will need every bit of help they can get to maintain their championship aspirations. The return of injured players like Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon will undoubtedly strengthen the team, but the continued partnership of Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook is the key to their success.
As the Nuggets aim to secure a top playoff seed, Westbrook’s revival has given them the depth and experience they were missing earlier in the season. His contributions, alongside Jokic’s brilliance, have put Denver in a position to once again challenge for the NBA title.
Conclusion
Nikola Jokic’s leadership has not only elevated the Denver Nuggets but also revived Russell Westbrook’s career. Together, they’ve made NBA history and transformed the Nuggets into a formidable force. With their sights set on another championship, this dynamic duo could very well shape the future of the league.
