Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee Friday and will be out through the All-Star break, the team announced.
"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.
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Brad Penner/USA TODAY SportsRussell Westbrook had a triple-double Wednesday against the Knicks. Two days later, the Thunder announced that he'll be sidelined through the All-Star break after another knee surgery.
"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. 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 tore the lateral meniscus in his right knee during the second game of the NBA playoffs in April. He underwent an initial surgery for the injury April 27 and had another surgery Oct. 1 to remove a loose stitch from the first procedure.
At the time, the Thunder said he would miss the first four to six weeks of the regular season, but he ended up returning Nov. 3 against the Phoenix Suns, missing just two games
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Entering Friday, Oklahoma City had played just three games this season without Russell Westbrook, but his absence still made a noticeable difference. Here's a look:
Westbrook has helped Oklahoma City to a 23-5 record and second place in the Western Conference entering Friday. He is averaging 21.3 points, 7.0 assists and 6.0 rebounds per game in 32.9 minutes.
The 25-year-old Westbrook had his seventh career triple-double by the middle of the third quarter in a 123-94 win at New York on Christmas.
"I just know that if we play the way we play, team basketball, Thunder basketball, not too many teams that can beat us," said Westbrook, who had 14 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists against the Knicks.
Now, the Thunder will be without Westbrook at least through the All-Star Game, which takes place Feb. 15. That means he won't make a fourth straight All-Star appearance and he'll miss at least Oklahoma City's next 27 games.
Reggie Jackson is likely to start in Westbrook's place. He's played well off the bench, averaging 12.5 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists.
The Thunder will go for their 11th win in 12 games Friday night when they visit theCharlotte Bobcats.
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