Russell Westbrook Injury Update and Why Nuggets vs. Clippers Is the Best First-Round Series

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Russell Westbrook’s injury adds more drama to the most competitive playoff series so far. The Nuggets and Clippers are tied 2–2 heading into a pivotal Game 5. Here’s the full breakdown from Harrison Talks Pod.

Russell Westbrook Injury Update: Status for Game 5 Remains Unclear

Russell Westbrook missed Game 4 of the Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Clippers series due to left foot inflammation, and his status for Game 5 remains uncertain. While Westbrook confirmed he plans to attend Game 5, whether he’ll suit up depends on how his foot responds during pre-game workouts and treatment sessions.

Westbrook’s energy, defense, and ability to create chaos off the bench have been key assets for the Nuggets all season, and his absence couldn’t have come at a more crucial time.

Game 4 Recap: Jokic Dominates, Nuggets Tie the Series 2–2

Despite missing Westbrook and battling other injuries, the Nuggets pulled off a dramatic 101–99 victory in Game 4 to even the series.

Aaron Gordon sealed the win with a game-winning dunk at the buzzer, capping off one of the wildest finishes of the playoffs so far.

The real engine for Denver, as always, was Nikola Jokic, who delivered a mind-blowing stat line:

  • 36 points

  • 21 rebounds

  • 8 assists

Even with Jokic's heroics, the Nuggets had visible depth concerns. Jamal Murray struggled offensively, and Michael Porter Jr. fought through a shoulder injury, limiting his usual scoring impact.

Denver’s supporting cast has been tested hard in this series, and that test will only get tougher without healthy contributions from key players.

Westbrook’s Absence Highlights the Nuggets’ Depth Issues

Without Westbrook’s hustle minutes off the bench, the Nuggets’ depth was exposed. Denver leaned heavily on Jokic, with limited reliable options behind their starting five.

If Westbrook remains sidelined for Game 5, and if Porter Jr. continues to battle shoulder pain, the pressure on Jokic and Gordon to carry the offense will only intensify.

The Nuggets’ championship hopes hinge not only on Jokic’s brilliance but also on getting healthy bodies back before the wear and tear becomes too much.

Nikola Jokic’s MVP-Level Impact on the Series

Nikola Jokic is once again proving why he’s one of the most valuable players in the NBA.

His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate at an elite level is keeping the Nuggets alive in an extremely tight series. Every possession runs through Jokic, and his calm under pressure has been essential in a series where three of the four games have been decided by just one basket.

If Denver advances, it will be because Jokic continues to put up historic performances, but the Nuggets will need more than just their superstar to survive the West.

Clippers vs. Nuggets: The Best Series of the First Round?

There’s no question: Clippers vs. Nuggets has delivered the most competitive and thrilling matchups of the 2024 NBA Playoffs so far.

  • 3 out of 4 games decided by a single possession

  • Dramatic finishes, including buzzer-beaters and huge momentum swings

  • Stars stepping up (Jokic, Gordon, Kawhi Leonard when healthy)

  • Constant physical battles, playoff-intensity defense

As the series heads back to Denver for Game 5, both teams know the stakes are sky-high. A win gives one team a huge advantage with two games left — and possibly, a chance to avoid a grueling seven-game war.

Russell Westbrook’s potential return would add even more layers of intrigue. Will his energy swing the series in Denver’s favor? Or will the Clippers capitalize on the Nuggets’ injury woes?

Either way, Nuggets vs. Clippers is must-watch basketball.

🎙️ Catch the full breakdown on Harrison Talks Pod – Episode 28

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