The Denver Nuggets begin their 2024-25 season on Thursday night against the OKC Thunder. This game will be played in Denver, where the Nuggets won 33-8 last season.

Thursday’s game will mark the official Nuggets debut of nine-time NBA All-Star and 2017 MVP Russell Westbrook. Signed by the Nuggets in free agency this summer, Westbrook will start the season as Denver’s backup point guard.

Westbrook made three preseason NBA appearances, averaging 11.3 points, 6.3 assists and 2.0 rebounds in 19.6 minutes per game. After converting five of his nine three-point attempts, Westbrook’s shot looked great in the preseason.

Speaking about Westbrook after Wednesday’s practice, Nuggets star Michael Porter Jr. that head coach Michael Malone allows the veteran point guard to be himself.

“I think coach Malone is letting Russ be Russ,” Porter said. “…and I think Russ enjoys it.”

Westbrook spent the past two seasons with the LA Clippers. Upon his arrival, Westbrook was named the team’s starting point guard, but was moved to the bench shortly after the Clippers acquired James Harden. Not only did this lead to a smaller role for Westbrook, but he often played out of position when he was in the game.

The way Porter sees it, Westbrook is allowed to be himself in Denver, and that’s something the future Hall of Fame point guard enjoys.

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