Jan 31, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) looks on against the Philadelphia 76ers in the first quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Michael Malone Reveals Big Russell Westbrook Injury Update

Originally posted on Denver Nuggets on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated Feb 19, 2025 3:42 PM ET

Russell Westbrook has not played a game for the Denver Nuggets since January 31, 2025.

It's been nearly a month since the veteran guard has been on the court with his teammates, but it seems like that may be finally coming to an end soon.

Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone revealed that Westbrook, Michael Porter Jr., and Vlatko Cancar were all able to participate in almost all of Wednesday's practice.

DaRon Holmes II was able to participate in parts of practice today, per Malone.

Vlatko Cancar was active as well.

Russell Westbrook and Michael Porter Jr. participated fully.

Only Peyton Watson was unable to go.
— Brendan Vogt (@BrendanVogt) February 19, 2025

The news is a huge moment for Westbrook because it felt like there was no sign of return due to his hamstring strain after missing the last seven games.

Michael Malone says Michael Porter Jr,, Russell Westbrook and Vlatko Cancar were able to participate in most if not all of today’s practice.
— Vinny Benedetto (@VBenedetto) February 19, 2025

The most intriguing part of this scenario is how the Denver Nuggets will acclimate Westbrook back into the team's lineup.

The team saw great success when Westbrook stepped into the starting lineup for an injured Aaron Gordon. When both Westbrook and Gordon played together upon Gordon's return, the team went on a losing streak. Once Westbrook was injured and the team returned to their original lineup of Gordon and Christian Braun, they went on an eight-game winning streak.

With that in mind, it's hard to tell if the Denver Nuggets will put Russell Westbrook back into the starting lineup, or if they'll put him back on the bench to keep Braun as a starter. It's a tough call, but current results make it hard to change anything.

This article first appeared on Denver Nuggets on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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