The Denver Nuggets secured their second consecutive victory with a comfortable 120-98 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, improving to 13-10 in their first 23 games of the NBA season.

Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Nikola Jokić spearheaded the offensive effort with double-digit scoring, but it was veteran Russell Westbrook who garnered praise for his defensive performance against his former team. Westbrook recorded five points, one rebound, five assists, three steals, and one block in 24 minutes, but those stats don’t fully capture his impact. He was the heart of Denver’s defense, earning a standing ovation from the home crowd.

Despite Jokić’s stellar performances, the Nuggets’ defense has been a recurring concern this season. Ranked 15th in defensive efficiency with a 113.7 rating, the team has struggled to balance its potent offense. Their disappointing loss to the Washington Wizards last week highlighted this issue, as the Wizards, on a 16-game losing streak, scored 32 points per quarter against the Nuggets.

Jokić, who had a career-high outing in that loss, currently leads the team in defensive rating at 109.2, underscoring how much the Nuggets have depended on their superstar.

However, Friday’s game was different. Westbrook stifled the Clippers’ offense, notably limiting James Harden, who committed nine turnovers. His lockdown defense was so effective that Jokić didn’t need to play in the fourth quarter.

Westbrook’s energy was contagious, and his contributions on both ends of the court were evident, finishing with a team-best +21 for the night. The Nuggets also recorded a season-high 34 fast break points, with Westbrook playing a crucial role in that success.