Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook undergoes hand surgery
Kyle Phillips
Add Russell Westbrook’s dominant right hand to the list of injuries the Denver Nuggets dealt with in the postseason.
The Nuggets said Westbrook underwent surgery Tuesday to repair multiple ligament tears in his right hand. The procedure was performed by Dr. Steven Shin at the Kerlan-Jobe Surgery Center in Los Angeles and the team said Westbrook is expected to resume full offseason training this summer.
Westbrook announced he was having surgery on his “Word of Westbrook” newsletter Tuesday. He played the final games of Denver’s second-round series against the Thunder with the middle and ring fingers on his right hand taped together.
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The 17-year veteran was a big reason why the Nuggets defeated the Clippers in seven games in the first round. He averaged 13.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists while shooting 43.3% from the field and 41.9% from 3-point range. His numbers dropped to 9.9 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.2 assists against the Thunder on 34.8% shooting from the field and 21.9% from 3. Westbrook didn’t disclose when the injuries occurred or a timeline for recovery.
“I’m grateful for everyone’s support all year, and I can’t wait to be back out there at 100% soon,” Westbrook wrote. “The comeback is already in motion.”
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Last season was Westbrook’s first with the Nuggets. He played in 75 regular-season games and 13 of Denver’s 14 playoff games. He missed one game against the Clippers due to left foot inflammation.
Westbrook can return for a second season with the Nuggets. He has a player option worth nearly $3.5 million for next season. The deadline for Westbrook to opt in or out is June 29.
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