On Tuesday, Thunder All-Star Russell Westbrook had knee surgery instead of training camp. The surgery is a follow up to Westbrook’s April 27th surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus in his right knee. Westbrook had some swelling but wasn’t in pain. The initial injury happened during Game 2 of the Thunder’s first round match up against the Houston Rockets.
Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook underwent successful arthroscopic surgery today to alleviate swelling in his right knee.
— Darnell Mayberry (@DarnellMayberry) October 1, 2013
Russ is expected to be out the first 4-6 weeks of the 2013 NBA Season.
Last week Oklahoma City GM Sam Presti indicated that the timetable for Russell’s return wasn’t locked in.
“I wouldn’t say that he will be (ready) and I wouldn’t say that he won’t be,” Presti said. “We’ve got to see how the next month goes.”
Today, Presti issued the following statement with the team’s announcement of the surgery.
“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.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. During the procedure it was determined that the source of swelling was due to a loose stitch, and fortunately we were also able to confirm that the meniscus has healed properly.”
The surgery was performed in California.
