Thunder guard and former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee earlier this week. The procedure was described as “maintenance” and he will be re-evaluated in four weeks. Westbrook is expected to miss the preseason but his status for Oklahoma City’s season opener on October 17 is to be determined.
Westbrook is coming off another outstanding season for the Thunder as he averaged a triple-double for the second consecutive season. As The Oklahoman details, Westbrook’s injury already has had ripple effects on the Thunder roster and will continue to do so until his impending return.
Check out more Northwest Division notes below:
- Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell had an outstanding rookie season for Utah, a season that would’ve earned him Rookie of the Year honors in nearly any other season. Frank Urbina of HoopsHype examines Mitchell skillset and projects how and when Mitchell could make the jump into superstar status.
- Nuggets‘ big man Mason Plumlee needed offseason surgery after playing another season of at least 70 games. NBA.com previewed Plumlee’s upcoming 2018/19 campaign as he prepares to be Denver’s primary backup at center.
- Jerry Zgoda of The Star Tribune looks at the Timberwolves‘ strategy for trying out players for the G League team. “Everybody’s just looking for the diamond in the rough,” Iowa Wolves coach and former Timberwolves player Scott Roth said. “Everybody wants the next Jonathan Simmons to walk into their building.
Still don’t think this was maintenance. Otherwise why do it so close to season start? Why did you go fashion week and play pick up ball all summer long?
No…something has happened…might be small, might not be….but this isn’t just maintenance in my opinion.
Cannot see Mitchell becoming a superstar, so far is just a volume shooter, he was sooo behind Simmons last year, he is a good player, will be a good scorer, but he will not be a superstar at all. So much over hyped.
Mitchell is dynamic. He finds pathways others cannot.
Simmons is just tall, whoopee, Sixers need a real PG not a fantasy. Oconnell will have to suffice as usual in crunch time.
Ball was just as good as him last year & guys call him a bust & Mitchell is a superstar. SMH
Mitchell? I don’t see it? Plus he’s short! 6’2’