Russell Westbrook

After missing Monday's game against the Kings, Braun started and played 25 minutes in Thursday's loss to Portland. If his playing time remains lower than the norm, Russell Westbrook will likely absorb the minutes that would typically go to Braun.

With Christian Braun back after a one-game absence, Westbrook returned to playing a role off the bench. However, he was still able to make an impact on this game, especially late in the fourth. He had a big block on Anfernee Simons that set up a dunk for Michael Porter Jr. that gave Denver a late lead. It wasn't enough to help them win, and he wasn't able to put up the same numbers that he did during his recent starts. However, Westbrook is playing far better than he did for either Los Angeles team and will continue to be an important reserve piece for the Nuggets.

With Braun back after a one-game absence, Russell Westbrook will return to playing his typical role off the bench. Julian Strawther saw extra minutes as a reserve with Braun sidelined, but he won't get that same boost in this game.

Westbrook filled in for the injured Christian Braun (back). He predictably handled the ball and allowed Jamal Murray to take on a larger scoring role. Westbrook excelled in his 35 minutes as he was merely one rebound shy of a triple-double. The 36-year-old point guard is still a productive streaming option when Denver is missing a starter.

With Christian Braun (back) sidelined, Westbrook will start alongside Murray. This should mean more time off the ball for Jamal, possibly resulting in a more productive night for him as a scorer. Julian Strawther will also have increased fantasy value, but he takes a hit remaining on the bench instead of replacing Braun.