The Denver Nuggets need Russell Westbrook to channel the disruptive energy of Bruce Brown, not just focus on being a playmaker. Coach Michael Malone wants Westbrook to be more of an agitator, similar to how Dwight Howard frustrated opponents during the 2020 NBA playoffs.
Westbrook’s role isn’t to replicate his MVP days or become the team’s primary scorer—that’s Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray’s job. Instead, they brought him in for his defensive grit, veteran leadership, and ability to unsettle opponents in key moments.
The Nuggets, while still a playoff-caliber team, need Westbrook to provide the toughness and edge they lost last season. His presence should inject some of the “punk” attitude that the team lacked during their title defense.
Much like Howard during the Lakers’ 2020 run, Westbrook can bring the same kind of intensity, setting a physical tone and being a defensive pest to opposing stars. Coach Malone is counting on Westbrook to bring that energy and toughness, both as a defensive presence and a mentor to younger players.
Westbrook understands his role, and he’s ready to embrace it. The goal is simple: be the bad guy when necessary, irritate opponents, and do whatever it takes to help the team win games—even if it means becoming the villain to the rest of the league. If that path leads to Westbrook finally securing a championship ring, any discomfort will be worth it.
