Russell Westbrook turns back the clock with triple-double against Warriors

Over his last five games, Westbrook has rediscovered his rhythm, averaging 17.2 points, 6.2 rebounds and 8.4 assists per contest. His improved perimeter shooting has also stood out, as he has connected on 40.6 percent of his three-point attempts during this stretch. His 42 assists over the last five rank second in the NBA, trailing only James Harden’s 53.

Aaron Gordon led the charge for Denver with a season-high 38 points, while Michael Porter Jr. contributed 21 points, 10 rebounds and five assists. The Nuggets improved to 44-25, tying the Houston Rockets for the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. Denver is now 27-15 against conference opponents and holds a 21-14 record away from home this season.

Golden State, which entered the game on a seven-game winning streak, struggled offensively. Jimmy Butler led the team with 23 points, eight rebounds and six assists, while Stephen Curry added 20 points and seven assists. Draymond Green made franchise history, becoming just the sixth Warrior to reach 6,000 career rebounds. He finished with 10 points, six rebounds, five assists, three steals and five blocks.

The Warriors endured a miserable night from beyond the arc, shooting just 8-of-33 from three-point range. They started 1-of-8 in the first quarter and missed 13 of their first 14 attempts, failing to find a rhythm. With the loss, Golden State drops to 39-29, holding onto the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference. The Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Clippers are now within striking distance, threatening to push them into the play-in tournament race.