Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma City Thunder had his second knee surgery which will keep him on the sideline for the first four to six weeks of the season.
Westbrook had injured his knee last season in the playoffs. The team announced that surgery was necessary after he had some swelling in the knee. Thunder GM Sam Presti claims that the swelling in Westbrook's right knee was due to a loose stitch from his last surgery. He also said that Westbrook's meniscus has healed.
According to Sports Illustrated Westbrook will miss around 13 games if he is out four weeks and approximately 21 games if he stays out for six. The season starts for the Thunder on Oct. 30 and Westbrook will probably be out until December.
“Russell has been incredible in his work and rehabilitation. He has been pain-free and has performed at a high level during practice, but has experienced recent swelling that had not subsided,” Presti said. “After careful consideration and recommendations from the medical team, we elected to do the procedure today based on our consulting physician’s belief that the swelling would be alleviated, and in turn give Russell the best chance for sustained performance throughout the season and beyond."
ESPN reports that Westbrook does not plan on altering his style of play once he has recovered, and will continue to attack the basket.
We'll see how this surgery affects Westbrook and the Thunder going forward.