The injury-ridden Oklahoma City Thunder will finally have one of their superstars back. Russell Westbrook has been cleared to play Friday night against the New York Knicks, but Kevin Durant will continue to sit out.
However, Durant is very close to returning, as there is a strong possibility that he plays on Tuesday. Durant has been out all season long due to a broken bone in his foot.
Westbrook, meanwhile, has been out since November 30, as he has only played in two games this season. Upon his return, Westbrook will not be on a minutes restriction. He will be back into the starting lineup, meaning Reggie Jackson, who is having a phenomenal year, will be pushed to the bench.
"Great man. Been out for a while. Rested, so I'm happy to be back and go out and try to win," Westbrook responded when asked how it feels to be back. "I'm just excited to get back to my game routine, go home, take my nap. Normal stuff that I usually do. You know, to get my self prepared for a game. You kind of miss all that stuff when you sit down on the side and out with a suit. I'm about to take all my suits to the cleaners and I'm going to pick them up at the end of the season," Russell continued.
It's going to be an exciting night for Thunder fans who have been anxiously waiting for the return of their superstars. The team has been terribly struggling with all these injuries, as they have started the season with a 4-12 record. With Westbrook back and Durant's return looming, the Thunder are now ready to make a playoff push.
In addition to Russell Westbrook, Grant Jerrett will also be available for Friday night's game, as he is ready to make his season debut if Scott Brooks chooses to play him.