Russell Westbrook is not having the best of times at the start of his stint with the Houston Rockets. The team confirmed that he dislocated a finger ahead of the team's opening game next week. However, Mike D'Antoni told Jonathan Fiegen and the rest of the media that he should be ready to play against the Milwaukee Bucks in their season opener. He also gave an update on Austin Rivers' condition.
D'Antoni said Rivers and Westbrook both told him they were "all right." He said Rivers' sore neck was a shoulder injury, Westbrook's sore hand was another dislocation of a finger.
— Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen) October 19, 2019
Westbrook sustained the injury during the team's preseason triumph over the Miami Heat. It happened during the fourth quarter when he was making a drive to the basket. He immediately ran to the locker room and had it checked.
It's fortunate that the Rockets wouldn't have to worry about not having Westbrook in the team in the long run. He's going to be an integral cog to the Rockets' title hopes this season with his athleticism and court vision. He's building one of the most dangerous backcourt combinations with James Harden, so it's in the team's best interests to keep him healthy.
Moreover, it's important that he gets to play. He left the Oklahoma City Thunder to chase a ring, ending the era that gave the Thunder much success during their time there. Moreover, there are talks that the Rockets are still heavy favorites even without the Westbrook trade ever happening. Chris Paul is still a fantastic player in spite of the conflict the two of them share.
This is the best time for the Rockets to come out at the top of the West and win their first NBA title since 1995. Westbrook will be instrumental in their success, so his return is the biggest priority for the Rockets.
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