Kevin Durant Announces Russell Westbrook’s Return

In a chat with Grantland over the All-Star break, Kevin Durant broke the news that Russell Westbrook will suit up Thursday night against the Miami Heat. Per the AP:

Westbrook has missed 27 games since having surgery on Dec. 27 to deal with swelling in his injured right knee — the third procedure in nine months.

The three-time NBA All-Star tore the lateral meniscus in his right knee during the second game of the playoffs last April. Westbrook underwent an operation after that injury and had another procedure on Oct. 1 to remove a loose stitch.

Oklahoma City went 20-7 this season without him.

The Thunder didn’t immediately respond to calls and emails regarding Westbrook’s status. Oklahoma City (43-12) entered the NBA All-Star break with the league’s best record.