Despite going through an intense workout Friday, Oklahoma City Thunder star point guard Russell Westbrook will not play tonight against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Westbrook underwent surgery on his right knee Sept. 12. It was the fourth procedure the explosive guard has had on his right knee following a collision with guard Patrick Beverley in the 2013 playoffs, which resulted in a meniscus tear.
Russell Westbrook is out tonight against the Clippers.
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) October 19, 2018
Westbrook is close to returning and has been cleared for full contact drills and practice, but after an energetic workout after shootaround determined to sit Friday's game. It's looking likely Westbrook could be available against the Kings on a Sunday.
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) October 19, 2018




The Thunder will start Dennis Schroder at the point guard spot until Russell Westbrook returns. OKC acquired Schroder this offseason from the Atlanta Hawks in the Carmelo Anthony trade. The 25-year-old scored 21 points in the season opener versus the Golden State Warriors. The Thunder lost to the Warriors by a final score of 108-100.
Russell Westbrook has averaged a triple-double for two seasons in a row, and he won the 2017 MVP award. Last season, Westbrook posted averages of 25.4 points, 10.1 rebounds and 10.3 assists per game during the regular season. The 29-year-old shot 44.9 percent from the field, 29.8 percent from beyond the arc and 73.7 percent from the free-throw line.
The Thunder lost to the Utah Jazz in the first round of 2018 playoffs in six games. The team is expected to be better this season after parting ways with Anthony, and adding Schroder and big man Nerlens Noel.