In a move that has both shocked and thrilled the NBA world, the Denver Nuggets have officially signed former MVP Russell Westbrook. Following months of speculation, the 2023 NBA champions secured Westbrook after the LA Clippers traded him to the Utah Jazz, leading to a buyout agreement. It was a push from Nikola Jokic, the reigning three-time MVP, that ultimately convinced the Nuggets’ front office to bring in the dynamic point guard.
Westbrook signed a two-year, $6.77 million contract, adding depth and a scoring punch to Denver’s backcourt. With Reggie Jackson traded to the Charlotte Hornets and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope heading to the Orlando Magic, the Nuggets were in dire need of reinforcements. Westbrook, known for his relentless energy and playmaking ability, is expected to lead Denver’s bench unit and provide much-needed support when Jokic or Jamal Murray is off the floor.
Julian Strawther in the Summer League for the Nuggets
28.5 PPG
4.0 RPG
40.9 3PT%Led Summer League in PPG
He’s going to play some crucial minutes for the Nuggets this season with their thin bench. He definitely has the offensive tools to at 6’7! pic.twitter.com/bpLb5YVzla
— All NBA (@TheAllNBA) July 22, 2024
The Denver Nuggets are gearing up for a competitive 2024-25 season with a lineup that features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon are the guaranteed starters. The fifth starting spot is up for grabs, with Christian Braun and Julian Strawther as the primary contenders.
Here is the projected depth chart for the Nuggets:
While Russell Westbrook’s arrival is a significant boost for the Nuggets, the success of the team will heavily depend on the development of their fringe players. Christian Braun’s progress has made Caldwell-Pope’s departure more manageable, but other players need to elevate their game.
Peyton Watson showed promise last season but struggled to secure playing time during the playoffs. Coach Mike Malone is hopeful that Watson can contribute more consistently in the upcoming season. Julian Strawther, who impressed during the Summer League, has the potential to start over Braun, but he will need to prove his worth during training camp.
Zeke Nnaji and Vlatko Cancar will also have opportunities to showcase their skills. The addition of Dario Saric, a versatile forward who can space the floor, is expected to bolster the team’s depth. However, if the bench players do not step up, the Nuggets’ second unit could remain a weak spot.
The Denver Nuggets’ decision to sign Russell Westbrook is a bold and somewhat risky move. While Westbrook’s addition brings experience and a high level of play, his performance in recent years has been inconsistent. The Nuggets are banking on Westbrook’s ability to adapt to a new role and complement the existing core of Jokic and Murray.
The signing of Russell Westbrook by the Denver Nuggets is a gamble that could pay off handsomely or backfire spectacularly. Westbrook’s high-energy style and competitive spirit could invigorate the team, but his fit within the Nuggets’ system remains uncertain. With Jokic and Murray as the established leaders, Westbrook will need to adjust to a secondary role, something he has struggled with in the past. If he can embrace this challenge, the Nuggets could be poised for another deep playoff run. However, if Westbrook’s integration into the team falters, it could disrupt the chemistry that has made Denver so successful.
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