The addition of Russell Westbrook for the Denver Nuggets has created a buzz around the team and many believe his presence is having a positive impact. Reigning NBA MVP Nikola Jokic is particularly optimistic, expressing confidence that Westbrook can help improve the team’s transition defense.

The Nuggets, who failed to defend their NBA title last season after a disappointing playoff exit, brought in the veteran point guard – who holds the record for most triple-doubles in NBA history – to complement Jokic and Jamal Murray in their quest to compete for another championship.

Following a recent drill, Jokic emphasized the importance of working on transition defense and pointed out how Westbrook’s experience could be game-changing for Denver.

“I think we’re lucky to have Russ on our team.” Jokic said. “He’s the guy who’s been doing this for a decade or two. He does it at a really high level. He can help us a lot in this category.”

Russel Westbrook of the Denver Nuggets shoots during the NBA game between Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics. Francois Nel/Getty Images

Jamal Murray says Nuggets are ready to bounce back

Jamal Murray is equally optimistic about the upcoming season and believes the Nuggets are poised for a strong comeback. The guard cited the team’s productive training camp and Westbrook’s arrival as key reasons for Denver’s improved energy heading into the new season.

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“I think we’re ready to get back on our feet.” Murray said in an interview with The Sports News. “The energy is really high. We’ve had a great training camp, spent a lot of time together over the last few weeks and I think all of that is starting to come into play. We’re really excited to get it started.”

Murray is confident the extra preparation will lead to a fast start. “I think we’ll be off to a great start just from the time we’ve spent together and getting to know each other on a personal level. I’m looking forward to seeing this on the pitch.”

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He also emphasized that winning should be the team’s main focus. “When you have a group that is talented and ready to win, that’s all it has to be about. So I think just winning should be everyone’s priority and if we keep that mindset we can get the job done.”

Gianni Taina is a bilingual journalist fluent in English and Spanish who specializes in football, NBA and tennis. He began his professional career in 2020 at Mundo Deportivo US, where he made his first strides as a writer. Gianni has covered major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the NBA Finals and Grand Slam tournaments such as Roland Garros. His ability to report on events in real time and write under pressure has made him a valuable member of a world-class team of journalists. In 2024, he moved to Bolavip US, where he covers a wide range of sports including European soccer, MLS and the NBA. Gianni earned his degree in Communications from Deportea in Buenos Aires, Argentina.