Russell Westbrook
At all costs, Russell Westbrook is determined to make Nikola Jokic the center of the Denver Nuggets’ offense. The 36-year-old point guard highlighted his desire to go above and beyond to send the ball to the reigning MVP during the Nuggets’ 116-110 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday.
According to Bennet Durando of the Denver Post, Westbrook declared, “Nikola Jokic is the best player on the court, in the
world,” demonstrating his unwavering focus on delivering the ball to Jokic. Therefore, I will try to pass the ball to him 20 times. He went on, “I do not really care.”
Following a fierce victory in which Denver defeated a formidable Sacramento challenge, Westbrook made his remarks. The Kings’ defense regularly gave way to Jokic despite his dominance, packing the paint with defenders. Westbrook is steadfast in his resolve to include Jokic as much is can, though.
“I would attempt to do that as well if I were on the opposing squad.
As he reflected on the difficulty of feeding the ball to a player who frequently attracts double or triple teams, Westbrook said, “As supporting cast, it is our job to make sure we help make the game easier for him.”
Jokic, a three-time MVP who is averaging an incredible 28.8 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game, continues to prove why he is regarded as one of the best, if not the best, player in the NBA. His ability to dominate on both ends of the floor makes him the focal point of Denver’s offense, and Westbrook has fully embraced that role.
While feeding Jokic the ball has sometimes been a challenge this season, Westbrook’s leadership off the bench has been instrumental to Denver’s success. The former MVP is contributing 12.9 points, 5 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game in 27.6 minutes, and his willingness to be a playmaker for others has paid off.
The Nuggets are currently sitting at 40-22, occupying the third spot in the Western Conference standings. Denver’s success this season has been largely attributed to the play of Jokic, with Westbrook playing a key role in supporting the MVP’s efforts.
