Russell Westbrook has received much criticism in recent years, especially in his Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers days. He’s been booed a lot throughout his career by opposing supporters, regardless of the team he starred for. Given that, Westbrook spoke to the media recently as a new Denver Nuggets player, discussing various topics ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season.
In an interview with the press this week, Russell Westbrook discussed what exactly went wrong in his prior NBA experiences. Westbrook blames the teams for failing to capitalize on his “unique” game. Additionally, Westbrook has always been a scapegoat for the teams he has featured recently, with fans blaming him for not seeing their franchise succeed.
To be honest, (my skill-set) was unique. They just didn’t put me in a position to be unique. I was in a position where I was playing not my position.
Russell Wesbtbrook via media interview
Furthermore, he also spoke about how the Nuggets’ head coach, Michael Malone, will utilize his ‘unique skillset.’ Westbrook was at his most significant best with the Oklahoma City Thunder. He was one of the best guards in the NBA during his Thunder years, averaging a triple-double every other game.
Russell Westbrook on his unique skill-set and fit in Denver vs. previous stops:
“To be honest, (my skill-set) was unique, they just didn’t put me in position to be unique. I was in a position where I was playing not my position.”
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“Coach Malone allowing me to use my speed…” pic.twitter.com/jyiVM3yVlI
— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) September 28, 2024
In 11 seasons with the Thunder, Westbrook averaged 23.0 points, 8.4 assists, and 7.0 rebounds per game while shooting 46.5%. This showcases a ‘quality player’ in him and if the Nuggets utilize him accordingly, they are in for a great 2024-25 NBA season.
Nikola Jokic gets honest about new Nuggets teammate Russell Westbrook
The Denver Nuggets star man Nikola Jokic recently stole the headlines for his recent comments regarding his side’s newest addition. The Nuggets recently acquired Russell Westbrook for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season and Jokic was full of praise for his newest teammate.
Jokic recently attended media duties where he spoke about the arrival of Westbrook, praising him for his attitude and mentality on the court. Nevertheless, ‘The Joker’ also admitted having troubling times due to their previous encounters as opponents.
Of course, we didn’t have a great relationship on the court (as opponents), we were fighting a lot and talking back and forth. But I know who he is outside of the court. Great teammate, worker, leadership, the guy you want to listen to, the guy you want to follow in the gym. So I think he’s a great player for us, and I think he’s gonna bring us all the good stuff.
Nikola Jokic via media interview
In addition to Jokic, Nuggets head coach Michael Malone praised Westbrook’s defensive abilities. Westbrook succeeded in this area last season and can carry it to a higher level for his new side ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season.
However, a lot of eyes will be on Westbrook to deliver as he already has been hated and criticized in the league for years. This time around it won’t be any different. Given that, Westbook has adopted the late Kobe Bryant‘s mentality and will embrace the hate as he steps on the court.
