Golden State Warriors fans expected an easy path for Stephen Curry and co. to clinch their eighth consecutive win after the Denver Nuggets ruled out Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray and Christian Braun for tonight’s matchup. However, Russell Westbrook had other ideas, stepping up to lead the shorthanded Nuggets to a stunning 114-105 victory.
In a thrilling duel between point guards, Westbrook outperformed Curry. The Warriors’ star struggled, managing just 20 points on 21 shots while committing seven turnovers. Meanwhile, the 2017 MVP delivered a triple-double, totaling 12 points, 12 rebounds, and 16 assists. His 203rd career triple-double earned praise on social media.
“Curry really got outplayed by Westbrook in 2025,” a user wrote.
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“Russell Westbrook is still Russell Westbrook. The role changed, but the motor and fire is still the same,” one fan wrote.
“Hater say with now? Top 5 PG EVER?!! Outplay curry tonight,” another user claimed.
“Vintage Russ,” another fan said.
“He’s the only reason the Nuggets won today,” another user wrote.
“nah cuz westbrook still got it fr,” one fan wrote.
Westbrook wasn’t alone in orchestrating the upset. He received some much-needed help from Aaron Gordon, who delivered a career-best performance with the Nuggets. Gordon erupted for a season-high 38 points in just 37 minutes.
Russell Westbrook reveals the Nuggets mentality without three starters
The Denver Nuggets were severely shorthanded tonight, missing the services of Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Julian Strawther, Christian Braun, Trey Alexander and DaRon Holmes II. Missing out on three starters didn’t deter Russell Westbrook and co. from rising to the challenge.
“What was the mentality of those available to get this win?” the reporter asked.
“Compete. Just go out and give the best that we can, and we got a group that can compete with anybody any night if we compete and play hard, and we did that tonight,” the Brodie responded.
Beyond delivering a triple-double, Westbrook embraced his role as a veteran leader, keeping his teammates engaged and motivated throughout the game.
“(Led) Just by talking. By making sure they understand and instilling confidence in those guys. They work their butts off to get opportunities like tonight,” Westbrook shared.
With this victory, the Nuggets remain tied with the No. 2 Houston Rockets in the standings. More importantly, the win provides valuable breathing room, allowing Jokic and Murray to get the rest they need ahead of their upcoming clash against the #4 Los Angeles Lakers.
Edited by Neha
