Scouts who spoke with ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Tim Bontemps offered differing opinions on the Denver Nuggets point guard Russell Westbrook’s impact at this stage of his career.
While one scout voiced concern that the former MVP might be overextended, saying Westbrook is “probably playing too many minutes,” another took a more optimistic stance, believing his intensity and energy could still be a deciding factor in a playoff series.
“Are there going to be a couple rough games from Russ? Yes,” the scout acknowledged while speaking to Bontemps. “But then he’ll come back and fill up the box score and dive on the floor and intimidate an opponent. I’d bet on it working four times (out of seven) enough.”
Despite occasional inconsistencies, this scout remained confident that Westbrook’s relentless hustle, ability to impact the stat sheet, and fearless approach would prove valuable when it mattered most in a postseason setting.
The veteran guard has played 17 seasons for 6 teams, including the Thunder and Clippers. He has averaged 21.3 points, 8.1 assists, and 7.0 rebounds in 1,218 regular-season games.
He was selected to play in 9 All-Star games and has won 1 MVP award.
Nuggets Notes: Jokic, Westbrook, Braun, KCP, Nnaji https://t.co/dT6RUc6Ak9 pic.twitter.com/p8VuOSy4zM
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) March 8, 2025
