Who needs a three-time MVP when you’ve got Russell Westbrook breaking records and rewriting history? With Nikola Jokic absent—rumored to be celebrating the birth of his second child—the Denver Nuggets stepped onto the court against the Memphis Grizzlies, brimming with uncertainty. But in a dazzling display, Westbrook’s 200th career triple-double ensured the Nuggets clinched a crucial 122-110 win.
Breaking Records from the Bench: How Westbrook Silenced the Haters
This wasn’t just another game; it was a statement. Westbrook, often a polarizing figure in the league, stepped off the bench to deliver a jaw-dropping 12 points, 14 assists, and 10 rebounds in 32 minutes. His game-leading assists and team-high rebounds showcased his ability to do it all, silencing doubters who questioned his relevance.
Westbrook’s achievement wasn’t just monumental—it was historic. Known as the triple-double king, his 200th career feat extended his lead in NBA history. Remarkably, five of these triple-doubles have come from the bench, a feat only rivaled by Detlef Schrempf, who managed two.
To put this into perspective, Westbrook and Jokic alone account for over 10% of the NBA’s all-time triple-doubles. That’s not just dominance; it’s rewriting history. While Jokic’s tally stands at 136, it’s a safe bet that the Serbian superstar will soon leapfrog Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson, edging closer to Westbrook’s throne.
The Nuggets’ victory wasn’t solely Westbrook’s show. Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. combined for an electrifying 51 points, ensuring the team thrived without their talisman. Their shooting precision, alongside Westbrook’s versatile play, exposed Memphis’s defensive flaws.
But let’s not sugarcoat it: the Nuggets’ previous two Jokic-less games were disasters. This win was as much about redemption as it was about resilience.
As the Nuggets prepare to face the Dallas Mavericks, the question lingers—can they sustain this momentum? Jokic’s return could spell trouble for Luka Doncic and his crew. But one thing’s certain: Westbrook is no longer just a supporting act. He’s a game-changer.
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