The Denver Nuggets have rebounded from a sluggish start to the season, successfully pairing their three-time MVP with an often-criticized All-Star.

Initially, the Nuggets began the season with an 11-9 record through their first 20 games, which was disappointing for a team with legitimate championship aspirations and a three-time league MVP in Nikola Jokic. After being eliminated in the second round of last year’s playoffs, the Nuggets signed Russell Westbrook to a two-year contract over the summer. Despite his flaws, Westbrook is regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, although his recent tenures with the Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers revealed that he was no longer in his prime.

In Denver, alongside Jokic, the NBA’s triple-double leader has experienced a career resurgence after three seasons of being labeled as “washed.”

Examining Westbrook’s on/off numbers this season, it’s surprising how well the Nuggets are performing. After their slow 11-9 start, they have surged to a 22-15 record, placing them fourth in a competitive Western Conference.

In recent weeks, Westbrook has been inserted into the starting lineup alongside Jamal Murray, and the duo has seen considerable success. In his 16 starts, the Nuggets boast an impressive 12-4 record. While their offensive rating dips slightly with Westbrook on the floor (117.9 compared to 119.8), their assist percentage, steal percentage, and rebounding percentage all improve during his minutes.

Although the defense is somewhat weaker with him playing, Westbrook remains a respected scorer who helps create space for Jokic, Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and the rest of the Denver roster. This season, he averages 12.9 points per game, the second-lowest of his career, yet his effective field goal percentage of 51.6% is his highest ever, and his 3-point shooting at 32.4% is the third-best of his career.

However, scoring is not the only asset he brings to the table.

Jokic has never had an All-Star teammate, and while Westbrook likely won’t earn his tenth All-Star nod this year, his presence is significant. Jokic consistently ranks among the top five in points, rebounds, and assists, solidifying his status as an all-time great and showcasing his exceptional passing ability. This season, he averages 9.9 assists per game, placing him second in the league.

Westbrook has led the league in assists three times and has recorded double-digit assists in five seasons. Although he averages only 6.8 assists per game this year, he has successfully connected with Jokic for 84 assists, ranking as the third-best pairing in the NBA, behind only Trae Young and Jalen Johnson and Chris Paul and Victor Wembanyama.

Having a player on the floor who can effectively complement Jokic transforms the Nuggets’ offense, allowing for a faster pace. Last season, they were ranked 27th in pace; this year, they have broken into the top five.

While Westbrook may no longer be in his MVP prime, he has shifted from being labeled a “stat padder” and “shot chucker” to playing a more team-oriented, winning style of basketball.