What the Russell Westbrook drama could mean for the Hornets

One of the most disappointing teams in the Western Conference this early in the 2024-25 campaign is the Denver Nuggets. At just 1-2, they have a similar record as the Charlotte Hornets.

While the season is still young, the fact that the Nuggets lost their first two games at home and needed overtime to clinch their first win has had fans greatly concerned about the team's prospects in this campaign.

Of course, it's tough to count out a squad led by Nikola Jokic. However, his supporting cast hasn't been playing up to standard. An exception, though, is Russell Westbrook, but only because the embattled point guard has been his usual underwhelming self.

The Hornets could give the Nuggets an upgrade at backup point guard

Denver's decision to bring in Westbrook was certainly bold but was also met with many raised eyebrows. Some pundits have argued that the former MVP has been detrimental to every franchise he has played for and looks like a bad fit on the Nuggets.

Three games in, and the analyses have only proven to be accurate. He is averaging just 5.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per contest while shooting 20.0 percent from the field. It has also been bricks upon bricks from beyond the arc, as he has been just 1-10 from long range.

As such, there are people around the league who want the Nuggets to put the brakes on the Westbrook experiment. An NBA scout has even suggested for the potential Hall of Famer to call it quits already.

It remains to be seen how Denver will solve its conundrum. But if the front office is looking for an upgrade for Westbrook, the Hornets have the player they might want.

In the past offseason, the Nuggets had been mentioned as a potential trade destination for Vasilije Micic. The Serbian playmaker's close relationship with Jokic probably played a significant role in the rumor.

Of course, nothing came out of it, as Micic still suits up for Charlotte. However, the 30-year-old has arguably been playing worse than Westbrook, averaging 2.3 points per game on 16.7 percent shooting. He also has more turnovers than assists, which isn't exactly what any squad wants from its point guard.

A change of scenery might just be what Micic needs, and playing alongside his compatriot could be the impetus for him to get back to form.

It's unclear if the Hornets have the Serb on the trading block, but they should take advantage of the situation if the Nuggets express an interest in acquiring him. A second-round pick or two might be enough compensation for Micic.

Charlotte shouldn't be too worried about losing a bit of depth at backcourt in that case because Sixth Man of the Year candidate Tre Mann has shown the ability to run the point for the second unit.