Why Is Everyone Always Targeting Westbrook?

Russell Westbrook hasn’t even played a single game for the Denver Nuggets yet, but he’s already at the center of controversy, this time over his jersey number. It seems his journey in the Mile High City is destined to be anything but smooth.

The issue started when Westbrook didn’t choose his usual number 0 jersey upon joining the Nuggets. Rumors quickly spread that Westbrook had wanted the 0 jersey and asked current holder Christian Braun to give it up. When Braun reportedly refused, Westbrook settled for number 4, which was vacated by Hunter Tyson. This sparked a debate among fans and media alike—some argued that a veteran like Westbrook deserved respect, while others supported Braun, a first-round pick who contributed to the Nuggets’ championship run last season.

Before the debate could escalate further, Westbrook took to social media to clarify that he never requested or demanded the 0 jersey, asking the media to leave his young teammates alone. This seemingly trivial issue reflects the awkwardness of Westbrook’s situation with the Nuggets. But why is Westbrook so often the target of controversy? The answer lies in two factors: his polarizing presence that generates attention and the uncertainty surrounding his role in Denver.

Westbrook’s career has been marked by both fierce support and harsh criticism. Fans and critics alike are unsure of his future in Denver. From the Thunder to the Rockets, Wizards, Lakers, and Clippers, Westbrook’s status has steadily declined, but his playing style has remained unchanged, fueling endless debate. Despite his diminishing role, Westbrook continues to play with the same relentless energy, and his lack of a championship only adds to the scrutiny.

However, it’s important to understand that the Nuggets’ expectations for Westbrook are different. His signing is more about necessity than luxury. Denver needed to stay under the NBA’s salary cap, leading them to let key players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope walk and trade Reggie Jackson for financial reasons. Westbrook was the best player available in the minimum salary market, making him a pragmatic choice for the Nuggets.

The Reality of Westbrook’s Role in Denver

Westbrook isn’t in direct competition with Braun, who has solidified his place as a young talent for the Nuggets. Last season, Braun played in all 82 regular-season games and contributed significantly in the playoffs. Denver’s GM, Calvin Booth, has a unique approach to building the team—focusing on maintaining a strong core while integrating young players to keep the team competitive long-term. This strategy is driven by financial constraints and the desire to avoid overpaying for veteran players.

Booth’s approach faced challenges last season, especially when the Nuggets were eliminated by the Timberwolves in the playoffs. With key draft picks like Holmes out due to injury, the team needed an immediate boost, leading them to sign Westbrook. However, this move doesn’t elevate Westbrook’s status; he remains a backup point guard, with no chance of replacing Braun in the rotation.

Westbrook’s position as a backup reflects a shift from his previous roles. He’s no longer the star player who demands a starting spot or the hometown hero with something to prove. His focus now is on enjoying the game, without the pressure of being the team’s centerpiece.

Westbrook’s Freedom and Limitations

Westbrook’s style of play has always been a double-edged sword—his passion and aggressive approach make him a valuable player, but his limitations, particularly his inconsistent three-point shooting, can be a liability. In Denver, he won’t be tasked with leading the team or carrying the load. Instead, his role will be to provide energy and relieve the starters, especially when Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic are resting.

However, Westbrook’s shooting struggles could still create challenges for the Nuggets, particularly in lineups where he shares the floor with other non-shooters like Aaron Gordon and Braun. This could lead to spacing issues and make it easier for opponents to defend Denver’s offense, particularly in the playoffs, where every weakness is magnified.

A Mutual Understanding

The relationship between Westbrook and the Nuggets is one of mutual understanding—both sides know what they’re getting into without any grand expectations. Denver’s hopes for the upcoming season rest more on Braun’s development than on Westbrook’s contributions. Braun’s ability to fill the void left by Caldwell-Pope could be crucial for the Nuggets’ success.

For Westbrook, this is a new chapter where he can play without the burden of expectations. His passion and dedication to the game remain, but he’s no longer the focal point. This might explain why he chose not to pursue the 0 jersey—he’s ready for a fresh start, without the baggage of his past.

Westbrook will likely continue to be a polarizing figure in the media and among fans. The jersey number controversy is just a glimpse of what might come. The pressure on Westbrook won’t disappear overnight, but perhaps with time, it will begin to fade.