He was still the catalyst for what felt like an unlikely comeback, a tale he played part in plenty of times over the years. Westbrook meant everything to Denver’s improbable win, a necessary throwback to a better time — both for him and the Nuggets.

The Nuggets added nine-time NBA All-Star Russell Westbrook this offseason to help out their second unit, but the veteran point guard has emerged as a valuable starter recently. Denver head coach Michael Malone had nothing but praise for Westbrook following ...