Nuggets’ Russ: Former teams didn’t maximize my skills

Russell Westbrook believes that Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone will maximize his skills after claiming his former teams have not allowed him to play to his true style.

“To be honest, (my skill set) was unique, they just didn’t put me in position to make it unique,” Westbrook said. “I was in a position where I was playing not my position.”

Westbrook added: “Coach Malone allowing me to use my speed, use my transition skill to be able to make other guys better, makes the game easier for everyone around me, and that’s what I love to do best.”

Westbrook’s last team, the Los Angeles Clippers, ranked 13th in transition points per game last season, while the Nuggets ranked 23rd, according to NBA.com.

The former MVP and nine-time All-Star has struggled to integrate himself as he’s transitioned into a smaller offensive role, most notably while flanking LeBron James and Anthony Davis with the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 campaigns.

Westbrook, 35, averaged 11.1 points, five rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.1 steals with the Clippers last season, largely in a reserve role. Westbrook projects to be the main backup point guard to Jamal Murray in Denver.

Malone also thinks that Westbrook will also add another dimension to Denver’s defense.

The Nuggets begin the season at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Oct. 24.

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