Russell Westbrook is committed to making Nikola Jokic the focal point of the Denver Nuggets’ offense, no matter the cost. After the Nuggets’ 116-110 win over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, the 36-year-old point guard emphasized his willingness to do whatever it takes to get the ball to the reigning MVP.
“The best player on the court, in the world, is Nikola Jokic,” Westbrook said, per Bennet Durando of the Denver Post, making it clear that he prioritizes getting the ball to Jokic above all else. “So I’ll turn it over 20 times trying to pass him the ball. I don’t really care,” he added.
Westbrook’s statement came after a hard-fought win where Denver overcame a tough challenge from Sacramento. Despite Jokic’s dominance, the Kings’ defense frequently collapsed on him, crowding the paint with multiple defenders. However, Westbrook remains unwavering in his determination to involve Jokic as much as possible.
“If I’m the other team, I’d try to do that too. It’s our job as a supporting cast to make sure we help make the game easier for him,” Westbrook noted, reflecting on the challenge of feeding the ball to a player who often draws double or triple teams.
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.
