Russell Westbrook picked up his 16th technical foul of the season yesterday, which triggers a one-game suspension.
But he caught a break today.
So, Westbrook will be in the lineup against the Trail Blazers tonight – and the Thunder sure need him.
They’re tied with the Pelicans for eighth in the Western Conference, but New Orleans holds the tiebreaker. So, Oklahoma City needs to gain a game with two left. The Thunder finish with Portland and the Timberwolves, and New Orleans faces the Timberwolves and Spurs.
Westbrook at least gives Oklahoma City chance, keeping its offense afloat. Defense remains problematic without Serge Ibaka, and of course, Kevin Durant is out for the rest of the season.
The Thunder aren’t the threat we once expected with so many injured players, but with Westbrook, they’re good enough to win more game than New Orleans. Right now, that’s all that matters.
If they do that, Westbrook’s technical count will reset for the playoffs.