Russell Westbrook’s ex-teammates make statement for Clippers-Nuggets

The LA Clippers and Denver Nuggets face off in a Western Conference battle on Saturday. Both teams have dropped their respective season openers and are looking to get into the win column.

This match will be the first time Russell Westbrook plays against his former team. The 2017 NBA MVP spent the last two seasons with the Clippers, where he did great things both on and off the court. When asked about their former teammate after Friday’s practice, Clippers guards Terance Mann and Norman Powell both spoke highly of Westbrook.

“One of the best teammates I’ve ever had,” Mann said. “Bringed intensity on and off the field. It’s great to be around him… I know he’ll be super excited, so it’ll be fun.”

Mann laughed and said there will be some banter between him and his former teammate when they play each other Saturday, but they haven’t talked about the game yet.

“I’ve known Russ for a long time,” Powell added. “…He’s been a great mentor and leader… Like T-Mann said, he’s going to be excited and want to get a little revenge. He always has that chip on his shoulder… But it’s all love. I’m happy to see him again.”

Westbrook made his Nuggets debut on Thursday against the OKC Thunder, with whom he spent 11 legendary seasons.

Nikola Jokic made unprecedented history during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris

Kevin Durant gets honest about how NBA players view Nikola Jokic

Russell Westbrook reacts to being left off the viral NBA roster