Russell Westbrook Sidelined Through All-Star Break
Published at
Christian Petersen/Getty Images(OKLAHOMA CITY) — Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee Friday and will be sidelined through the All-Star break.
“Russell has been playing pain free but recently had experienced increased swelling,” Thunder general manager Sam Presti said in a statement Friday. “After consultation and consideration by his surgeon in Los Angeles, a plan was established to monitor the swelling that included a series of scheduled MRIs.”
Presti went on to say that during the most recent MRI, the surgeon determined another surgery was necessary to address the swelling and bring Westbrook back to 100% health.
Westbrook initially tore the lateral meniscus in his right knee during the second game of the NBA playoffs in April. He returned ahead of schedule, making his season debut on Nov. 3. Kevin Durant will be asked to carry the scoring load in Westbrook’s absence, and reserve Reggie Jackson will be given the chance to start.
Entering play Friday, the Thunder sit at 23-5 and in second place in the Western Conference. He is averaging 21.3 points, 7.0 assists per game.
Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio