The Nuggets are back! After opening the season with two straight losses, they have turned it around in just two nights and risen to a .500 record. But it took a valiant effort to achieve that feat as both games were decided in overtime. Yes, Nikola Jokic was dominant as usual. But it was Russell Westbrook’s breakout performance that proved to be the difference maker. And he got rewarded for it as he received a massive locker room honor from Michael Malone, leaving the fans in a frenzy.

Taking over in tonight’s game against the Nets, Russ went off for 22 points and was a menace on defense all night. And the head coach did not shy away from crediting the superstar for his effort as he awarded him the Defensive Player of the Game chain, something that has become a Nuggets’ postgame ritual. “For a 17-year vet coming off the bench with tremendous energy. Defense. Russell Westbrook.” Malone remarked.

As expected, Westbrook wore the DPOG chain with immense pride, even showing it off in a video posted by the Nuggets. After all, it’s his first accolade in his new uniform. Tonight’s scoring outburst might have finally ended his struggles, as he had logged three consecutive single-digit performances before the game against the Nets. The recognition from his teammates and head coach will undoubtedly boost his confidence.

The DPOG chain has certainly become a staple in Denver, with Aaron Gordon earning it after last night’s overtime win against the Raptors, where he posted a 16-point double-double. The accolade not only motivates players to bring their best on defense every night but also plays a key role in building locker room chemistry.

NBA World marvels at Russell Westbrook’s ‘Aura’ and urges the Nuggets to keep him

Well, Russ looked extremely hyped after receiving the honor and fans could not hold back their excitement after seeing the bling around his neck. Comments like “The aura making me nervous” and “AURAAAAAAA” began flooding in, seeing the former MVP smiling from ear to ear.

Meanwhile, other netizens marvelled at the team’s growing locker room chemistry as one wrote, “Nuggets locker room healing mane” while another wrote “Love to see it! Great win and way to play hard and get the win despite being down at half! Go Nuggets!” Yes, the team was down by 17 points during the game. Yet they were able to muscle a comeback with their effort and finish with a win. Surely, the consecutive overtime wins will boost their morale and give them confidence for the rest of the season.

And seeing Westbrook finally play like a superstar, one fan urged the Nuggets to “please keep him all season.” Well, it has only been a few months since he joined the team. But even though he is no longer an MVP calibre player, he can still impact winning with his effort and occasional scoring outbursts. And Denver could use that in the playoffs.

While most fans celebrated Westbrook’s big night, one netizen deemed it a lucky break for Denver “How about we not celebrate beating the worst team in the league in overtime. Terrible start. Lucky to be 2-2.” Yes, the two wins were against mediocre teams who are unlikely to be playoff contenders. But a win is a win, and it has put Denver on the right track. Hopefully, they can carry this momentum forward and improve their record.