Westbrook All-In with Nuggets But Hamstring Injury is a Major Setback

Russel Westbrook only recently signed a two-year, $6.7 million contract with the Denver Nuggets, but an injury he sustained after a game against the Philadelphia 76ers may hamper his season. 

The 16-year NBA veteran strained his right hamstring, causing him to sit out of the succeeding games. Head coach Michael Malone updated fans with disappointing news, saying there is currently no timeline or timeframe for the point guard to return to the lineup. Prior to the injury, Westbrook had been proven to be a valuable addition to the Nuggets, and his time on the team has helped revive his performance on the court. The hamstring injury may be a setback for his time with the Nuggets, depending on how and when he’ll bounce back.

Westbrook’s NBA career

The Denver Nuggets made an impressive move by signing Westbrook to play for the team in mid-2024. Despite his All-Star status, he had a rough few seasons on the Lakers and Clippers. In his first season with the Nuggets and before the injury, he was averaging 13.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.4 assists. He quickly established himself as one of the team’s best defenders, and developed amazing chemistry with Nikola Jokic. He’s someone you’d want on a team if you want a strong lineup, including the likes of Steven Adams and Kevin Durant. Throughout his career, he’s achieved numerous accolades, being a nine-time NBA All-Star and the MVP of the 2016-17 season. He’s known for his durability and intensity as a competitor, making him a crucial part of the Nuggets’ defense. 

Off-court passions

Westbrook’s passion on the court translates to other ventures as well. Like many NBA stars, fashion is one of his main pursuits. He became an endorser of the Jordan Brand and Kings and Jaxs, and in 2015, was named the Marketing Creative Director of the denim brand True Religion. He also opened up his own clothing brand called Honor the Gift in 2016. 
 

Poker is also another one of his hobbies. He’s not the only athlete with poker prowess, as many big names in sports have expressed their passion for the US Poker scene. Athletes often play for philanthropic purposes as well; in 2020, football star Tom Brady played alongside some of Hollywood’s A-listers in a tournament hosted by Americas Cardroom. Westbrook is no exception; he often plays the game for fundraising purposes rather than entertainment. Prior to starting his season with the Denver Nuggets, he organized a poker game in collaboration with the World Poker Tour to raise money for his Why Not? Foundation, which aims to uplift underprivileged communities through education, training, and mental health resources. 

What’s next for the Nuggets?

Westbrook has become a well-loved player in the NBA and his community, so the news of his injury and the uncertainty of his return to the court has many worried. Fans have expressed concern that the hamstring strain would hamper his momentum, which he’s built up over the course of his stint with the Nuggets. The injury also came at poor timing, as fellow teammate Peyton Watson had to be sidelined for a knee issue. The rest of the team will have to step up to cover for both, but Westbrook’s absence may prove to be a bigger issue since he’s been on the starting rotation. Though the Nuggets have been fortunately winning games without him, the team still needs to keep healthy to avoid any other injuries that could affect performance. There’s still time for them to adjust and replace their defensive abilities, but they need to strategize effectively and quickly before coming up against a formidable opponent. Fans will have to wait for more news surrounding Westbrook’s injury, his recovery, and when he can get back in the game.

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