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The Nuggets are the only team currently interested in Willis
According to well-known journalist Marc Stein, the Denver Nuggets are currently the only team that is actually interested in Russell Westbrook (Westbrook). Although Willow has chosen to exercise his $4 million option to stay with the Los Angeles Clippers, the Clippers seem to have no intention of keeping him in play and are openly exploring his trade market. The Nuggets' interest in Willis has undoubtedly brought a new twist to the former MVP's career.
Wei Shao's dilemma
Willis averaged just 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game last season, all of which hit career lows. As a substitute, his performance was far from his prime. The Clippers signed James Harden to a two-year, $70 million contract extension on the free agent market, while bringing in guards Chris Dunn and Kevin Porter Jr. This has made Westbrook's role on the team even more marginal, almost dispensable.
Behind the wandering career
Since leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook has played for five different teams in the last six seasons. This career path as a ranger is in stark contrast to his consistency during his time with the Thunder. Despite a slight upturn with the Lakers, his career remains uncertain and challenging. The Nuggets became a new hope for him to regain his glory.
The fit between Wei Shao and the Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets' tactical system revolves around center Nikola Jokic, with most of the ball in the hands of the versatile center. Willis isn't a player who is good at opening up space, but his ball handling and playmaking skills make him an interesting option for the Nuggets. According to US media reports, Westbrook is likely to be placed on the bench, mainly on the court to organize the offense when Jokic is rested, and to cut off the ball when they are on the floor at the same time to make full use of his athleticism and impact.
Jokic's behind-the-scenes push
It's worth noting that, according to Nuggets reporter Harrison Wind, Jokic has been pushing for Willis to join the Nuggets behind the scenes. "I've heard that Jokic wants Westbrook to come in, and he wants to play with Westbrook. This is not the first time he has expressed such a will. This kind of player-driven trade move undoubtedly adds more possibilities for cooperation between the Nuggets and Westbrook.
Will Willow be able to adapt to the Nuggets?
However, it remains to be seen if Willow will fit into the Nuggets' system. Jokic's high ball quotient and all-around style of play allow him to partner with different types of players, but whether Willis' off-ball performance and defensive ability can meet the needs of the Nuggets needs needs needs needs to be verified in actual games. In addition, it is also an interesting question whether the Nuggets' team culture and locker room atmosphere can accommodate this player full of personality.
What is the future of Wei Shao?
Whether or not Wei Shao eventually joins the Nuggets, his career has undoubtedly entered a new turning point. As a former MVP and future Hall of Famer, his experiences and performances are in the spotlight. The Nuggets' interest and Jokic's push have opened up new possibilities for his future, but they have also brought new challenges and controversies.
Controversy: Is Wei Shao a good medicine or a poison?
For the Nuggets, signing Willis is a high-risk, high-reward option. The arrival of Willis could inject new energy and variety into the squad, but it could also bring tactical challenges and instability in the dressing room. Will Will he be able to regain his peak form and become a key part of the Nuggets' championship attempt, or will he become an existence that needs to adapt and compromise like previous teams? This will undoubtedly be one of the most controversial topics in the NBA for some time to come.