OKC Thunder star Russell Westbrook has been ruled out of Oklahoma City’s clash with the New York Knicks.
For the fifth straight game, OKC Thunder star Russell Westbrook is listed as out for Oklahoma City’s clash with the New York Knicks. When reports broke that Russ was participating in practice early today, there was renewed optimism surrounding OKC’s fan base the Brodie could return early from injury.
Coach Billy Donovan spoke more about it in an interview with reporters after practice per Thunder beat writer for the Oklahoman Maddie Lee.
Russell Westbrook’s availability for tomorrow is still unclear. He’s running, cutting and shooting, but the Thunder didn’t do any contact in practice today, per Billy Donovan. Donovan emphasized that Westbrook is “doing more and more each day.” We’ll see how he feels tomorrow.
— Maddie Lee (@maddie_m_lee) November 13, 2018
However just three hours later, ESPN’s Royce Young confirmed Westbrook is listed as out.
Russell Westbrook once again listed as out in the game notes for tomorrow’s game against the Knicks.
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) November 13, 2018
While Donovan left a small possibility Russ may return depending on “how he feels”, it seems very unlikely Russ makes his return after spraining his ankle in the win against New Orleans on 5/11.
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Despite the continued absence of Russ, Oklahoma City have stayed the course and accounted for Cleveland, Houston and Phoenix in three of their last four games. The only blemish to the Thunder’s past four games was a defensive dud on the road against a scrappy Dallas squad. OKC bounced back in their last outing hammering a helpless Phoenix Suns 118-101 at Chesapeake Arena.
Paul George has lead the way averaging 22.5 points (42.8 percent shooting, 39.4 percent from three), 5.0 assists and 9.5 rebounds while reserve point guard Dennis Schroder has replaced Westbrook’s production contributing 20.7 points and 4.2 assists.
Big man Steven Adams has ascended to new heights and taken over the third scorers role producing 16.5 points and 10.8 rebounds during this stretch.
It is clear the Thunder are taking their time with Russ’ recovery. With upcoming games against New York, Phoenix and Sacramento, it will be surprising if Westbrook misses all three clashes.
Particularly, a much anticipated clash with the Golden State Warriors at Oracle on the 22/11, OKC fans will be hoping the Brodie will be 100 percent healthy. Schroder will continue starting point guard duties in Westbrook’s absence.