Westbrook had been experiencing swelling in repaired knee.
Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook has been ruled out of action until at least February after undergoing surgery on his right knee.
The 25-year-old tore the lateral meniscus in his right knee during the second game of the NBA playoffs back in April and underwent surgery almost immediately after.
However, he required a second procedure in October to remove a loose stitch which he recovered from ahead of schedule, but he has now been forced to undergo a third operation as a result of increased swelling.
“On the most recent MRI, it was determined by the surgeon that there was an area of concern that had not previously existed nor was detectable in the previous procedures, and it was necessary to evaluate Russell further,” Thunder general manager Sam Presti said in a statement.
“The consulting physician determined that arthroscopic surgery was necessary to address the swelling that was taking place. We know that Russell’s work ethic and commitment will help him return to the level of play that we have all come to appreciate.”
Westbrook has helped the Thunder to a 23-5 record so far this season which has taken them to second place in the Western Conference.
He is currently averaging 21.3 points, 7.0 assists and 6.0 rebounds per game in 32.9 minutes of action and has further established himself as one of the best point guards in the league.
However, he will now be missing for the next two months at least which equates to over 27 games and it will also see him miss out on the All-Star game for the fourth consecutive year.
While Reggie Jackson stepped in to help the Thunder past the Charlotte Bobcats on Friday night, it is expected that Westbrook’s absence will be a big blow for coach Scott Brooks as he looks to maintain their regular season momentum.
Oklahoma City remain one of the strongest outfits in the West, but Brooks will undoubtedly be aware of the importance of his starting point guard.
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