Nuggets coach lauds 'irritant' Russell Westbrook for embracing intense trash-talk approach during practices
Veteran point guard Russell Westbrook continues to receive praise ahead of his first season with the Denver Nuggets. According to Nuggets coach Michael Malone, the 2017 MVP's practice intensity and energy have been "contagious" among his new teammates.
Westbrook has become one of the NBA's most divisive players in recent years. As his athleticism has begun to wane, some have questioned his effectiveness, citing his sub-par 3-point shooting efficiency and high turnover count.
The nine-time All-Star has bounced around the league, with Denver marking his sixth team since 2019. Nevertheless, he appears to be making a strong first impression with his new squad.
Last week, reports emerged about Westbrook providing vocal leadership for the relatively reserved Nuggets. Moreover, per Malone, Westbrook has added a new element to the team's practices via his intense trash-talking.
On Monday, the veteran coach was asked if Westbrook's vocalness "ever becomes too much." Malone dismissed the notion, noting that he appreciates him pushing his teammates to improve.
"I don't think you can have enough communication. You can't have enough agitation," Malone said. "I like that kind of stuff. Get guys going after each other because if we just come in here every day buddy-buddy, you're only gonna get so much better. But when you're talking s**t and getting under other people's skin, that becomes contagious."
Malone added that Westbrook has relished his role as an "irritant" for Denver.
"He was so excited today when other guys started getting into it," Malone said. "He was like, 'Man, I'm getting there. I'm accomplishing my goal of being an irritant,' and I love the fact that he brings that every single day."
Russell Westbrook is projected to be the Nuggets' sixth or seventh man this season, providing energy, playmaking and scoring off the bench.
Over three preseason outings, he averaged 11.3 points, 2.0 rebounds, a team-best 6.3 assists and 1.7 3-pointers per game, shooting 44.0%.
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Russell Westbrook "grateful" for opportunity to join Nikola Jokic-led Nuggets
Russell Westbrook appears galvanized for another chance to play a key role for an NBA title contender.
During Denver's media day late last month, Westbrook spoke about how "grateful" he is to suit up alongside superstar center Nikola Jokic, calling him "unguardable." The nine-time All-NBA selectee added that he is a fan of the Nuggets' team-first playstyle.
"This team has always been at the top of the Western Conference, always contending. They play the right brand of basketball," Westbrook said.
Westbrook also alleviated some concerns about his fit with the 2023 NBA champions, highlighting his desire to make sacrifices for the betterment of his squad.
"I'm always, at this stage of my career, looking to play the right way, regardless of the wins or losses, understanding that playing the proper brand of basketball allows everyone to kind of get involved, allows the team to grow," Westbrook said.
Westbrook and Denver tip off the regular season on Thursday when they host the Western Conference juggernaut OKC Thunder. The matchup should provide them with a tough early-season test.
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