In a season already marked by unexpected turns, ESPN analyst and former NBA player Kendrick Perkins is clear about one thing: Russell Westbrook has been a pivotal piece for the Denver Nuggets as they navigate through injuries and shifting dynamics. Although Westbrook’s shooting has been inconsistent, Perkins believes his “swag and confidence” have been indispensable, particularly in light of Jamal Murray’s early-season struggles.
Russell Westbrook Steps Up as Jamal Murray Struggles
Through Denver’s first five games, Murray seemed to be battling to find his rhythm. Averaging 16.2 points per game on 37% shooting, his performance fell short of the high expectations following the Nuggets’ 2023 NBA Championship run. This inconsistency was amplified during a tight 119-116 loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where a concussion further sidelined him.
As Murray stepped away to recover, Westbrook stepped up. Denver’s high-profile offseason addition seized the opportunity, moving into the starting lineup and delivering a much-needed spark. With Westbrook at the helm, the Nuggets surged to a 3-0 record, taking their season tally to 5-3. In those crucial games, Westbrook tallied 50 points on an impressive 64% shooting against the Toronto Raptors and Oklahoma City Thunder, reminding everyone of his 2017 MVP form.
Kendrick Perkins on Westbrook’s Impact: “He Gives You Swag and Confidence”
Perkins, a 14-year NBA veteran, didn’t hold back in his praise of Westbrook. On a recent episode of ESPN’s NBA Today, he argued that Westbrook’s impact has surpassed that of Jamal Murray in Denver’s current season trajectory. According to Perkins:
“He’s been more important to the Denver Nuggets this season than Jamal Murray has. When you think about their five wins, three of those wins, you have to look at it.”
Perkins highlighted key performances from Westbrook, specifically his 22-point effort off the bench against the Brooklyn Nets, a 21-point contribution in the win over Toronto, and a standout 29-point showing against OKC as a starter. His presence has injected energy, tenacity, and confidence into a Nuggets squad that’s been somewhat out of sync.
Westbrook’s Influence on Denver’s Game: Beyond the Stats
Despite trailing Murray in scoring averages, Westbrook’s intangibles are what make him invaluable to the team. According to Perkins, Westbrook’s unshakable confidence has been exactly what Denver needs:
“You talk about Russell Westbrook, what he gives you. He gives you swag (and) he gives you confidence. That’s one thing that he doesn’t lack.”
With Murray’s return status questionable for the Nuggets’ next matchup against the Miami Heat, Denver’s head coach Michael Malone might explore rotations that keep Westbrook in a prominent role. Even if Murray is cleared, Westbrook’s recent form makes a strong case for him to continue playing significant minutes, offering a fresh, aggressive approach that complements Murray’s skill set.
Comparing Westbrook’s Nuggets Role to His First Season With the Clippers
Perkins went further, drawing a parallel between Westbrook’s current run with Denver and his short stint with the LA Clippers. Last season, Westbrook brought immediate offensive boosts, averaging 15.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game in 21 appearances with the Clippers.
Perkins pointed out that the switch to the Clippers allowed Westbrook to breathe new life into his game:
“When he’s able to have a role that is elevated, we saw what happened when he left the Lakers and went to the Clippers and was the starting point guard. He had a new breath of fresh air. This is the same thing I’m noticing right now with the Denver Nuggets.”
Although his shooting numbers still trail behind his Clippers averages, Westbrook appears to be gradually hitting his stride. This Denver stint marks Westbrook’s sixth team in his 15-year career, and it looks like he’s finally settling into a system that values his energy and tenacity.
What Westbrook’s Confidence Means for the Nuggets’ Future
As the Nuggets seek to defend their 2023 NBA title, Westbrook’s ability to step up could be a deciding factor, especially as they await Murray’s full recovery. His infectious energy and “never back down” mentality have clearly resonated with the team, infusing them with a new level of determination on the court.
Russell Westbrook’s journey with the Nuggets is still in its early stages, but if his recent form is any indication, he could be the catalyst Denver needs to overcome early-season struggles and re-establish themselves as title contenders. With a veteran like Westbrook leading the charge, Denver’s prospects look promising, even in the face of adversity.
This season is shaping up to be a showcase for Westbrook’s resilience and adaptability, two qualities that have defined his career.
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