The Denver Nuggets’ 2024-25 preseason concluded with an important matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center. Despite a rocky start to their preseason, the Nuggets managed to close with a 132-126 victory over the Timberwolves. This win gave them a 1-4 preseason record, leaving fans both hopeful and questioning how the team will shape up heading into the regular season.
One of the biggest storylines for the Nuggets this season is the addition of Russell Westbrook, the 2017 NBA MVP. Known for his electrifying style of play and relentless energy, Westbrook signed with the Nuggets after spending last season with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. Despite a solid season statistically, Westbrook’s erratic play and turnover tendencies have been a talking point. In this game against the Timberwolves, Westbrook had a notable performance with 13 points, two rebounds, five assists, and one block while shooting 5-of-7 from the field in just 16 minutes of play.
However, Westbrook’s game wasn’t without flaws, as he committed five turnovers, one of which led to a viral moment on social media. During a fast-paced sequence, Westbrook threw a pass that went completely out of bounds, prompting reactions from fans and commentators. Some fans, like @SwaglordKenny, were astonished by the play, labeling it one of the “craziest sequences” they had ever seen, while others, such as @cupofdylann, humorously commented, “Bro launched that second pass lol wtf was that.”
Despite the criticism, many fans still hold high hopes for Westbrook’s role on the Nuggets. As he enters his 16th NBA season, Westbrook’s experience and leadership could prove invaluable to a Nuggets team aiming for a deep playoff run. His dynamic playmaking ability, paired with the Nuggets’ offensive firepower, offers an intriguing mix. Fans are eager to see how head coach Michael Malone integrates Westbrook with established stars like Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray.
The Nuggets are coming off a season where they made it to the second round of the playoffs but ultimately fell to the Timberwolves. With that in mind, the upcoming season carries high expectations for the defending NBA champions. Jokić remains the centerpiece of the team, with his MVP-caliber performances consistently guiding the Nuggets to success. Jamal Murray, fresh off a stellar postseason, is expected to continue his rise as one of the league’s premier guards. The addition of Westbrook, while seen by some as a gamble, could potentially bring the extra spark the Nuggets need to stay competitive in a stacked Western Conference.
Denver will officially open their regular season on October 24th, 2024, when they face the Oklahoma City Thunder at Ball Arena. The matchup will provide an early test of the team’s cohesion and a chance to see how Westbrook fits into the Nuggets’ system. As the season progresses, fans will closely watch whether Westbrook can reduce his turnover rate and contribute to Denver’s championship aspirations.
The Nuggets are well-positioned for another deep playoff run, with the core of their team still intact and a fresh injection of veteran talent in Westbrook. The preseason hiccups, including Westbrook’s errant pass, are less of a concern as the regular season approaches. Instead, the focus is on how the team will perform when it truly matters. Will the addition of Westbrook be a catalyst for Denver’s success, or will it create more challenges than solutions? Only time will tell as the Nuggets embark on their 2024-25 campaign.
Leave a Reply