In a mesmerizing display of efficiency and versatility, Russell Westbrook etched his name in the NBA record books on Monday night. The Denver Nuggets’ star guard orchestrated a masterful performance, becoming only the third player in league history to record a triple-double with zero turnovers while shooting a perfect 100% from both the field and the free-throw line.
A Night of Perfection
Westbrook’s stat line was the epitome of efficiency. He poured in 16 points, snared 10 rebounds, and dished out 10 assists, all without committing a single turnover. Even more impressively, he shot a flawless 7-for-7 from the field and 2-for-2 from the charity stripe.
When you can impact the game in so many ways without making mistakes, that’s special. Russ was locked in tonight.
– Nuggets head coach Michael Malone
Joining Elite Company
Westbrook joined rarified air with his immaculate performance. According to ESPN, the only other players to achieve the “perfect” triple-double feat are:
- Nikola Jokic – Denver Nuggets (Oct. 20, 2018 vs. Phoenix Suns)
- Domantas Sabonis – Sacramento Kings (Nov. 6, 2022 vs. Toronto Raptors)
This trio now stands alone in the triple-double record books since the NBA began tracking turnovers in the 1977-78 season. Achieving this level of all-around excellence while playing mistake-free basketball is a testament to their skill and court awareness.
A Team Effort
While Westbrook’s individual brilliance shone bright, he was far from the only star for Denver. Reigning two-time MVP Nikola Jokic also stuffed the stat sheet, totaling 36 points, 22 rebounds and 11 assists for a monster triple-double of his own. Jamal Murray chipped in 20 points and 10 assists as the Nuggets’ high-powered offense proved too much for Utah.
After the two Western Conference foes battled to a 66-64 halftime score in Utah’s favor, Denver seized control with a pivotal 34-23 third-quarter edge and never looked back. Jordan Clarkson’s 24 points and Collin Sexton’s 22 paced the Jazz in the losing effort.
Looking Ahead
With the win, Denver improved to [CURRENT RECORD] on the season as they continue their pursuit of the top seed in the West. Westbrook’s veteran presence and dynamic playmaking have helped the Nuggets maintain their elite status despite the absence of Michael Porter Jr. and Jamal Murray for extended stretches.
As the postseason draws nearer, performances like Monday night’s showcase why Denver remains a formidable threat to make a deep playoff run. If Westbrook can continue to fill up box scores with ruthless efficiency alongside Jokic’s nightly MVP-caliber production, the Nuggets have the firepower to compete with anyone in a seven-game series.
While triple-doubles have become increasingly common in the modern NBA, Westbrook’s “perfect” masterpiece serves as a reminder of how special he remains, even at age 34. On a night where he couldn’t miss, he also made all the right plays, leaving an indelible mark on the record books in the process.
