The Denver Nuggets secured a statement victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in what was arguably the most competitive first-round series of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs. A major contributor to that success was veteran guard Russell Westbrook, whose all-around performance off the bench helped push Denver into the next round.
At 36, Westbrook is no longer the MVP-caliber player who once dominated with the Oklahoma City Thunder. But his impact is undeniable. Against the Clippers, the former All-Star averaged 13.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game—numbers that underscore his value as a spark plug for the second unit.
Westbrook understands that not every decision will lead to the perfect result, but his experience allows him to stay composed in high-pressure situations. Speaking after Game 7, the Nuggets guard emphasized the mental side of his approach.
“I think a lot,” Westbrook said. “As much as people may not think, I’m very smart. I understand the game, I understand what’s going on. I think it’s my ability to be a force of nature on the floor—that’s what I pride myself on, whatever that looks like.”
Russell Westbrook #4 of the Denver Nuggets plays against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena
“It may be a turnover. It may be a missed shot. But it might be a steal, a dunk, a made three. It’s going to be all of that. So I just take it as it comes. Whatever happens, you go with it. And I’ve always been like that. As long as I leave it all on the floor and God allows me to keep competing, I’m grateful.”
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Historic game 7 performance
Westbrook delivered a historic performance in Game 7, finishing with 16 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals in under 30 minutes—a first in NBA playoff history for a player coming off the bench. His energy and production helped break the Clippers’ spirit by the second quarter, as Los Angeles struggled to respond with any urgency.
Jokic endorses midseason coaching change
Denver’s postseason success is also being viewed through the lens of their late-season coaching change. In a surprising move, the Nuggets dismissed long-time NBA head coach Michael Malone despite being securely in the playoff mix. Assistant coach David Adelman was promoted to interim head coach and has guided the team with composure and tactical precision.
Reflecting on the decision, Nuggets star Nikola Jokic offered his support for the organization’s bold call. “I think the owner wanted to change something, to change the energy, and probably he did [by letting go of Malone],” Jokic told reporters. “He got the result he was looking for.”
