Nuggets head coach Michael Malone opted for Russell Westbrook in the starting lineup, rather than Peyton Watson who had been starting in Gordon’s absence earlier this season. Denver was 6-1 in Westbrook’s starts prior to Friday’s loss,

Russell Westbrook was in the Christmas mood even after the Nuggets' double-digit loss to the Devin Booker-less Suns.

The Denver Nuggets may have struck gold in Russell Westbrook. The former All-Star point guard has been impressive for the Nuggets this season, emerging as one of their most important players.