Westbrook on Why He Joined the Nuggets: Wants to Be Teammates with Jokic, Finally No Longer Needs to Compete Against Him in Games

On September 27, at the Denver Nuggets’ new season press conference, Westbrook explained the reasons for joining the team.

He stated that he was “very grateful” for the opportunity to play alongside the current MVP Nikola Jokic.

“It’s an honor to be able to play with Jokic, and I’m very grateful for it,” Westbrook told reporters. “He does so many different things on the court that make others better. I’m glad to be part of it instead of being his opponent. Now I can see his greatness up close and what he is capable of.”

Westbrook added, “This team has always been one of the top teams in the Western Conference, always competing for the championship. They play the right kind of basketball.”

Jokic also expressed excitement about the Nuggets signing Westbrook this summer.

“I know a little bit about who he is off the court,” said Jokic. “He’s a great teammate, works hard, and is a leader… I think he’s an excellent player for us, and I believe he will bring us many benefits.”

Westbrook served as the sixth man for the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2023-24 season, and this fall, he is likely to support Jamal Murray as a backup point guard.

When asked about studying Jokic as an opponent, Westbrook told reporters, “You can only pray he misses his shot. There’s no way to stop him… The thought at the time was hoping to be on the same team as him.”

During the 2024 NBA Draft, Westbrook signed a two-year, $6.8 million contract with the Nuggets, including a player option for the 2025-26 season. His addition will fill the void left by the departures of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Reggie Jackson. If Murray can stay healthy and Westbrook performs well in a bench role, the two could potentially help Jokic and the Nuggets advance further next spring.