The Nuggets two-line operation strengthens the lineup, is Westbrook s road to Denver closed?

Latest news on July 2, the Denver Nuggets made a series of moves today, obtaining powerful center Yonas Valanciunas from the Kings through a trade, and then signed experienced wing scorer Tim Hardaway Jr. with a one-year veteran contract. These two moves quickly triggered a chain reaction of changes in the team's lineup.

Nuggets' reporter Ryan Blackburn quickly expressed his opinion on social media, saying that the team's two signings, especially the arrival of Valanciunas, greatly reduces the possibility of Russell Westbrook returning to Denver.

"I think we can say goodbye to Russ's idea of ​​returning to Denver," Blackburn wrote. "Jonas Valanciunas's playing rhythm is not the fast-paced offense and defense that Westbrook is used to and likes."

Blackburn's implication is very clear: Westbrook is famous for his signature, rapid conversion offense and explosive breakthrough passes, and he needs his teammates to keep up with this high-speed rhythm, good at running and finishing. Valanciunas is a center forward who prefers traditional positional battles, and is good at solid low-post offense, rebound protection and efficient ending at the basket. His game pace is relatively slower and he pays more attention to half-time positioning. There are obvious questions about whether the two's styles can be compatible on the court.

Westbrook is currently in full free agent status. During his time with the Clippers last season, he showed his adaptability to transform into the team's sixth man. He played 75 games throughout the regular season, averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game, proving that he is still a stadium commander who can provide comprehensive contributions. Previously, he chose to jump out of the $4 million player option next season and test the free market.

As the Nuggets successively introduce Valanciunas to strengthen the depth of the inside and Hardaway to improve the outside firepower, the team's lineup construction ideas have emerged. In the point guard position, Jamal Murray is the absolute core, and the team also has other roles to allocate time. The fit with the Nuggets' current lineup configuration is being questioned, and the door to return seems to be closing.

The free market is changing, but through these two operations, the Nuggets seem to have put an invisible end to Westbrook's possible return. The next stop for the former MVP winner has become one of the most eye-catching suspense in the NBA free agent market this summer.