“He’s going to challenge Murray to be great,” said Gilbert Arenas, speaking of Russell Westbrook’s impact on the Denver Nuggets. When a group of fans and analysts were waiting to trash on veteran guard, Arenas had a hopeful expectation. And, it didn’t go in vain as it’s slowly turning into a reality. Amid ESPN’s star analyst’s disrespect, the Mile-High City’s newest member reflected on the best aspect of his job after making a bold Jamal Murray claim.

Nikola Jokic‘s robin, Bubble Murray, has been under the radar since the Nuggets’ postseason failure. And it further doubled down after his embarrassing run in the Paris Olympics, representing Canada. In a four-game appearance, Murray averaged 6 ppg with 29.0% FG and 14.3% 3-pt FG. Following the performance, the NBA Champ faced criticisms from all directions until Westbrook joined the franchise.

Initially, Gilbert Arenas hailed the former MVP for his leadership skills and his potential to inspire Murray. Well, Arenas has certainly got everything right about Russell Westbrook. Speaking to the media on Day 2 of Nuggets Camp, Russ revealed the best aspect of his role. He said, “Leadership is the best part of this job for me personally like real leadership.” 

Beastbrook further added, “Real leadership. Understanding a guy’s background, understanding their struggle, understanding their strength, understanding their family. All aspects of not just basketball but life.” This is certainly something that could help Murray come out of his slump. Not to forget, Westbrook has already made a confident claim about pushing Jamal Murray out of his tough form.

Russell Westbrook’s promise to Jamal Murray

Just like the loyal fans expected Russ to take up the leadership role, the star guard did. Speaking on the media day, Russ said, “My job is to be able to push Jamal to be the best he can be. And play at the highest level he can.” Moreover, he further went on to praise the ace shooter, saying, “He’s an unbelievable player and he still has so much room to get better in a lot of areas and I’m grateful to be able to be here, to be able to help him along the journey and vice versa.” 

Especially with Jamal Murray extending his stay at Denver for four more seasons, it’s indeed necessary to have a leader to inspire him. Moreover, Russ’ confident words came in days after he went for a toss in the media. ESPN’s Ryan Clark took a shot at the veteran, comparing him to NFL’s Lamar Jackson, accusing them of not turning up when it needed the most.

While it received a lot of backlash from the fans, Russ remained silent apart from acknowledging his wife’s defense for him. Nevertheless, Russ himself has been going through a slump, averaging a career-low 11.1 ppg the previous season. Will his union with Jokic & Co. help the star? Let us know.

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Before leaving, do watch the Dual Threat Show hosted by BG12 where Bulldogs’ Asia Avinger details her experience with Kobe Bryant, her WNBA ROTY picks, and more in the video below.