Why Westbrook is the perfect fit for the desperate Denver Nuggets

The Los Angeles Clippers have traded Russell Westbrook and their second-round pick to the Utah Jazz for Khris Dunn. The Jazz are expected to negotiate a buyout deal with Westbrook, who, once he clears waivers, is expected to sign with the Denver Nuggets. This move promises to bolster the Nuggets' roster, adding depth and experience to their championship aspirations.

Why Westbrook is the right gamble for the Denver Nuggets.

The Nuggets were unable to defend their championship this past year and lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a tough seven-game series in the second round. With the addition of the Second Apron, they have little wiggle room with cap space this offseason.

Due to Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. being on max contracts, the Nuggets will face the challenge of filing their rotation with vet minimums and cap exceptions. Landing an experienced guard like Westbrook in what will likely be a vet min is a win.

Their veteran guard, Reggie Jackson, was traded, leaving them without a backup to Jamal Murray, and Westbrook is the perfect value add.

How Westbrook will fit in Denver.

Westbrook will provide spot minutes for Jamal Murray. Michael Malone is smart enough to allow Westbrook to play to his strengths. The Nuggets have had a top-three starting lineup for the last two years, so Malone will not ask much of him.

Westbrook is comparable to Bruce Brown, who served as their backup point guard during their championship run. Look for Malone to use Westbrook similarly: as a pesky defender, as a roller for Jokic, or in the Aaron Gordon dunker spot. While he isn't the player he was before, he can still contribute to winning and be a force if used properly.

It'll be interesting to see what Denver does the rest of this off-season. They lost Kentavious Caldwell Pope, but Christian Braun has shown promise and has closed games for them in the playoffs; he's likely to fill that role. They have now filled their desperate need for a backup guard and will actively continue looking for ideal fits.