One-Third Into the Season: Where Does Russell Westbrook Stand Now?

In the Denver Nuggets' recent 132-121 road win over the Utah Jazz, history was made. Nikola Jokić and Russell Westbrook recorded triple-doubles in the same game, marking the 13th such instance in NBA history. Jokić tallied a jaw-dropping 36 points, 22 rebounds, and 11 assists, while Westbrook added 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.

This was Westbrook's 201st career triple-double, further cementing his place as the all-time leader in this statistical feat. Meanwhile, it marked Jokić's 143rd triple-double, placing him third all-time and solidifying his reputation as a future triple-double king. Seeing the reigning triple-double maestro and his potential heir achieve this milestone in the same game was a long-anticipated spectacle, and it did not disappoint.

Jokić: The Standard of Consistency

Nikola Jokić’s brilliance is almost a given at this point. While his efficiency was slightly off in this game—shooting 14-of-33 from the field—his overall impact was undeniable. Jokić hauled in 7 offensive rebounds, dished out 11 assists with only 2 turnovers, and recorded 4 steals. His +20 plus-minus rating underscored his pivotal role in the Nuggets’ victory.

But the spotlight in this narrative belongs to Russell Westbrook, whose performance went far beyond simply notching another triple-double.

A Perfect Night for Westbrook

Westbrook's contributions in this game extended beyond the box score. He was a model of efficiency, shooting a flawless 7-of-7 from the field and 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. He handed out 10 assists without committing a single turnover and recorded 4 steals.

While Westbrook has achieved a triple-double once already this season, this was his first time doing so with 100% shooting accuracy. Furthermore, it marked the first time in two years that Westbrook registered a game with double-digit assists and zero turnovers.

His +23 plus-minus rating was the highest of any player on the court, even surpassing Jokić's. This game demonstrated what a focused and adaptable Westbrook can achieve, and it served as a reminder of why he remains one of the league’s most intriguing players.

The Journey Back to Relevance

Westbrook’s start to the season was rocky, to say the least. In his first two games, he shot a dismal 2-of-18 from the field, scoring a combined 8 points. After six games, his shooting splits were a disheartening 19-of-56 from the field (33.9%) and 4-of-19 from three (21.1%), with a true shooting percentage of just 42.3%. His struggles led to renewed doubts about his ability to contribute meaningfully in the NBA.

However, Westbrook didn’t let the early-season slump define him. Over the past 25 games, he has turned things around:

• Averaging: 13.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.0 assists.
• Shooting: 49.4% from the field, 33.3% from three, and posting a true shooting percentage of 56.8%.

Zooming in further, his last 11 games have been even better:

• Averaging: 12.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 7.6 assists.
• Shooting: 55.5% from the field with a true shooting percentage of 58.5%.

Additionally, Westbrook has started in seven of these games, five of which the Nuggets won.

Improving Efficiency and Adapting to Denver

Westbrook’s progress has not been limited to scoring. His decision-making and control have significantly improved, reflected in his 2.36 assist-to-turnover ratio—his best in four seasons. Moreover, his chemistry with Jokić has been a revelation. Westbrook has assisted Jokić 69 times this season, the most by any player on the Nuggets.

Defensively, Westbrook has also been a standout. He is averaging 1.7 steals per game, ranking seventh in the league, and opponents’ three-point shooting percentage drops by 5.1% when he’s the primary defender.

For a player whose defense has often been a target for criticism, this level of performance is remarkable. It also validates Nuggets coach Michael Malone's preseason claim that the team needed Westbrook's defensive intensity—a statement many dismissed at the time.

A Bargain for the Nuggets

Westbrook’s resurgence is even more impressive when considering his contract. Signed to a one-year, $3.3 million deal, Westbrook is delivering well beyond his salary. As a player who can start, lead the defense, and seamlessly complement Jokić, he has become one of the most valuable bargain signings in recent memory.

Malone’s Endorsement

Nuggets coach Michael Malone couldn’t have been more effusive in his praise following the game. “He’s one of the greatest point guards of all time,” Malone said. “What I admire most about Russ is his leadership and resilience. He’s checked his ego at the door, embraced his role, and prioritized winning above everything else. He’s here for one reason: to help us win a championship. And I love that he plays the right way and builds a winning culture. I’d go to battle with Russ any day.”

The Perfect Match

The partnership between Westbrook and the Nuggets seems mutually beneficial. Denver has provided Westbrook with a system and culture that maximize his strengths, while Westbrook has brought energy, adaptability, and veteran leadership to a team with championship aspirations.

As the season progresses, the synergy between Westbrook and Jokić continues to grow. With one-third of the season complete, the vision of Westbrook and Jokić hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy together no longer feels like an impossibility—it feels like a tantalizing reality waiting to unfold.