Nuggets' Russell Westbrook: Steps up with solid game

Westbrook chipped in 21 points (6-10 FG, 1-5 3Pt, 8-10 FT), six rebounds, six assists, one block and one steal across 34 minutes during Monday's 121-119 win over Toronto.

Although his stat line doesn't reflect it, Westbrook was excellent on defense, blanketing RJ Barrett for much of the game. Westbrook also thwarted Barrett's last-second attempt to tie the game, forcing him to take an off-balance, low-percentage shot. Thanks to Westbrook, Jamal Murray's (concussion) absence has had little effect on Denver's short-term outlook.