The Denver Nuggets have won their last two games, each by two points. On Wednesday, they handed the Oklahoma City Thunder their first loss with a 124-122 victory. Energy and effort have been the main reason for their victories. All the Nuggets young players who played gave 100% energy during their entire time on the court. Russell Westbrook is one of the main reasons the Nuggets’ energy has increased over the past few contests. His energy has been infectious. He has made his presence known on both ends of the court as he has looked like his vintage self. After the Nuggets won the NBA Finals in the 2022-23 season, they looked tired and lackadaisical last season. More energy was exactly what they needed, and Westbrook has brought it.
Russell Westbrook’s Energy is Exactly What the Nuggets Need
Gaining Chemistry and Trust
Westbrook has built a reputation as a great teammate, playing for several teams throughout his illustrious career. He has only played in eight games for the Nuggets but has already shown his impact. After failing to shoot above 50% in his first six games, he has shot 60% or better in the last two games. After scoring 21 points against the Toronto Raptors, he followed that up with a 29-point outburst against the Thunder. His 19 first-half points were a big reason the Nuggets stayed afloat during the first half, where the Thunder scored 66 points on 51% from the field. He was aggressive, leading to contested makes or fouls. His impressive first half forced the Thunder to send help to contest him in the second half, leading to easy assists, which the Nuggets took full advantage of.
Westbrook slid into the starting lineup after Jamal Murray went down with a concussion. The Nuggets have been victorious in all three of Westbrook’s starts. Westbrook has looked more comfortable in the lineup in each game. The two-man game between Nikola Jokić and him was a big reason Westbrook has had two great games back-to-back. Jokić received a double-team for nearly every touch he had against the Thunder, and Westbrook took full advantage of that. He led the offense for many minutes against the Thunder, making several open shots.
Westbrook’s Energy is Rubbing Off
The Nuggets have had one comfortable win this year. Their four other wins have included big comebacks. They trailed by 15, 17, 14, and 16 in those games. They have locked in with high energy and effort in the second half of each game. Westbrook has been a huge reason for that mentality and effort. He has mentored the young players several times, giving them advice and praise. Last night, after Peyton Watson missed two clutch free throws, he ended the game with a game-sealing block. After the game, Westbrook praised Watson for his resiliency in that situation. Watson has been inconsistent but is in line for an increased role with Aaron Gordon injuring his calf.
Westbrook’s drives to the hoop have given the young players open shots, showing his confidence in their ability. With the Nuggets having two significant injuries, they have been more reliant on their youth. A former MVP’s confidence can be a game-changer for a young player. Christian Braun has been a solid role player for the Nuggets for the last two seasons. This year, his play has taken another step, as he has arguably been the Nuggets’ second-most impactful player. Westbrook and Braun have provided an infectious spark to others. Their comebacks have started with their tenacious defense, which has led to offense and momentum.
After lacking the energy needed to overcome the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2024 playoffs, the addition of Westbrook is already showing its dividends in the absence of two starters. With a reliable veteran running the bench capable of matching the energy of any player, the Nuggets can withstand minor injuries. If Westbrook can continue his play, he will be a significant piece on a championship-hopeful team.
