Russell Westbrook makes NBA history in Nuggets-Pelicans

On By Littum

Denver Nuggets point guard Russell Westbrook entered Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans with a strong sixth man of the year. Entering this contest, Westbrook averaged 11.6 points, 6.5 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 1.6 steals in just 25.5 minutes per game. match.

Often closing out games for Denver and taking on the toughest defensive assignments, Westbrook has played a prominent role for his new team. Turning in another strong performance Sunday night, Westbrook finished the game with 21 points, five assists, five rebounds, three steals and a block. By doing a bit of everything for the Nuggets, Westbrook also made NBA history.

Russell Westbrook

December 16, 2024; Sacramento, California, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) celebrates after the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. / Sergio Estrada-Imagn photos

With 21 points, five assists, five rebounds, three steals and one block, Westbrook became the oldest player in NBA history to record that line off the bench (via Basketball Reference’s StatHead). The previous oldest player to accomplish this feat was Derrick Rose in 2021, when he did it at age 32. Having done so at the age of 36, Westbrook now stands alone at the top of this impressive list.

Westbrook, a former league MVP, holds numerous NBA records, including some as a reserve. Adding another Sunday, Westbrook was incredible on both ends for Denver.

The Nuggets signed Westbrook this offseason after he was traded by the LA Clippers and bought out by the Utah Jazz. Taking on several different roles in his short time in Denver, Westbrook has proven his ability to still score, pass, rebound and defend at a high level. Playing 36 minutes on Sunday, Westbrook leaned heavily on Nuggets head coach Michael Malone.

The Nuggets entered Sunday’s game against New Orleans with an opportunity to get back in the win column against the worst team in the Western Conference. With just five wins all season, New Orleans has been decimated by injuries. New Orleans gave Denver a good fight and took this game to overtime, but the Nuggets prevailed.

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