Denver Nuggets point guard Russell Westbrook. Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Russell Westbrook snaps slump in win over Nets

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Oct 30, 2024 3:36 AM ET

Russell Westbrook endured a brutal start to his tenure with the Denver Nuggets.

Over his first two games with the franchise, he was shooting just 11.1% on nine shot attempts per game, an his struggles were hindering the Nuggets' ability to control games when the second unit was on the court. They lost both of their opening contests.

However, Westbrook snapped out of his slump on Tuesday with 22 points and five assists in 20 minutes of playing time. When addressing the media after the game, he cited the Brooklyn Nets' bench unit as motivating.

"They learned the hard way," Westbrook said. "I'm one of the most of the competitive to play the game. When they wanna raise their level, I raise my level. Simple as that."

“They learned the hard way”

Westbrook on the competitiveness of the game pic.twitter.com/mknFVrniog
— AltitudeTV (@AltitudeTV) October 30, 2024

Brooklyn's bench brought a level of competitiveness to the court that clearly resonated with Westbrook, allowing him to find a new gear and finally get his tenure with the Nuggets off the ground. They were physical, they trash-talked and they executed at a high level.

Denver needs this version of the veteran guard every night. When he plays like he did on Tuesday, he's an essential part of the team's rotation. His ability to control the tempo, pressure the rim and create for others make him the ideal sixth man for a roster built around the excellence of Nikola Jokic. Westbrook amplifies what Mike Malone's roster does well.

The Nuggets have evened their season record at 2-2 following back-to-back overtime wins. However, both of those wins have come over rebuilding Eastern Conference teams. Denver still needs to show that it can compete with contending rosters around the NBA.

If Westbrook can maintain the level he showed on Tuesday, the Nuggets should have no problem reminding the world why they won a championship in 2023.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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