Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook became the first player in NBA history to tally 200 career triple-doubles after recording 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 14 assists during Tuesday’s 122-110 win over the Memphis Grizzlies.
The one-time NBA MVP shouldered the playmaking duties since Nikola Jokic was absent for personal reasons. Westbrook was asked to reflect on his new milestone, especially since Jokic, who has 136 triple-doubles, could catch up to him one day.
“It’s good, man. Nikola is one of the best in the world,” Westbrook told Katy Winge of Altitude TV. “Not one of, is the best in the world… Either one of us can take turns (getting triple-doubles) and be lucky enough to be able to do so. I’m grateful for the opportunity to play alongside him.”
“I’m truly grateful to be able to play the game long enough to be able to do that,” Westbrook added via Bennett Durando of The Denver Post. “But I’m also appreciative of the ones who came before me. And to be able to set the table, I’m grateful for that as well. Great night. My teammates made it easy for me and allowed me to go out and compete, and I’m grateful for the entire journey.”
Denver Nuggets can’t wait to have Nikola Jokic back
Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone was asked about Nikola Jokic, and the one-time NBA champion coach was noncommittal about whether his franchise player would be available for Friday against the Dallas Mavericks.
“I have no idea about Friday,” Malone said. “Obviously, there’s no news out of Denver. So we will revisit that when we get home.”
“We shouldn’t play in a different way,” he added. “Obviously, you don’t have a three-time MVP. I think we have to play harder. That should be with Nikola or without Nikola. I think we have to play more physical.”
