Nuggets face a bold Russell Westbrook decision to overcome the Thunder
It’s time for the Nuggets and their fans to fully embrace the reality — Russell Westbrook may be the key to unlocking the team’s full playoff potential. Despite a rocky postseason history, including a rough stretch last year with the Clippers, Westbrook has become a surprising asset for Denver.
His playoff struggles made him a risky signing, which is why he was available to the Nuggets on a minimum deal. Most contenders feared adding him would disrupt their rotations, but Denver took the gamble — and it’s paid off.
Westbrook exceeded expectations during the regular season, blending well with Nikola Jokic, stepping up amid injuries, and even earning consideration for Sixth Man of the Year. He played so well that former coach Michael Malone briefly inserted him into the starting lineup over Christian Braun when the team was healthy. But concerns about Westbrook have always centered on the playoffs, where his flaws are often magnified.
Westbrook should start in place of Michael Porter Jr.
So far in the postseason, Westbrook has flipped the script. He’s minimized mistakes, cut down on poor shot choices, and brought relentless energy — something the Nuggets thrive on. His defensive focus has sharpened, and he’s surprisingly hot from deep, hitting over 40% of his threes.
As analyst Zach Lowe highlighted on The Bill Simmons Podcast, the lineup featuring Westbrook, Jokic, Braun, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon has been dominant — posting a +42 net rating across 75 playoff minutes, with major advantages in free throw attempts and offensive rebounding. Replacing Michael Porter Jr. with Westbrook has clearly shifted momentum in Denver’s favor.
Given Porter Jr.’s lingering shoulder injury — which has significantly affected his shot and defense — interim coach David Adelman needs to fully commit to this adjustment. Starting Westbrook would not only get Denver’s best lineup on the floor for longer stretches but also remove a defensive liability, while adding a strong defender to help contain Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
This move would also ease the load on Porter Jr., letting him come off the bench and contribute in short bursts where he can focus on finding his rhythm with fresh legs. If he rediscovers his form, it’s a huge bonus for Denver — but Game 1 showed he’s struggling.
In contrast, Westbrook looked like one of the best players on the court. The decision may be daunting, but Adelman must trust in Westbrook and let him continue to lead this playoff push.
