- Russell Westbrook tested positive for COVID-19 virus but is feeling fine at the moment.
- Houston’s guard revealed that yesterday via his Twitter account.
- The Rockets went to Orlando without him and the other superstar James Harden.
- Mike D’Antoni’s team is in a tough position due to fierce competition in the Western Conference.
Westbrook Positive for Coronavirus, in Quarantine
Shocking news hit the NBA community yesterday with Russell Westbrook in the center of it. The former MVP and one of the best players in the last two decades, has tested positive for COVID-19 two weeks away from the league’s restart.
The player wrote a status on his Twitter account confirming the news, and adding that he feels good right now.
“I tested positive for COVID-19 prior to my team’s departure to Orlando,” Westbrook wrote. “I’m currently feeling well, quarantined, and looking forward to rejoining my teammates when I am cleared.”
Former OKC Thunder franchise icon also thanked for all the support received, and alarmed the public to be careful and protect itself from the virus.
“Thak you all for the good wishes, and continued support. Please take this virus seriously. Be safe. Mask up. #whynot.”
Westbrook is besides Harden the pivotal piece in Houston. In 53 games played since the start of the season, he averaged 27.5 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in almost 36 minutes per game.
He and the Beard developed solid chemistry even though many believed that these two wouldn’t be compatible on the court, predicting a lot of problems for D’Antoni.
In the meantime, the experienced head coach decided to make radical changes in the philosophy of play, switching to complete small-ball basketball, after trading Clint Capela and acquiring Robert Covington in return.
According to some rumors, Westbrook should recover in a few days, and he will be eligible for the start of the competition in Orlando. Having him in the lineup makes the Rockets a completely different team.
Harden Also Stays in Houston
James Harden and Luc Mbah a Moute also didn’t travel to Florida. There was no information about why these two haven’t joined their teammates, but according to D’Antoni, it is expected to see them in Orlando in three or four days.
After that, they have to be at least two days quarantined in the rooms, and probably pass another test before getting back to training sessions.
There isn’t any news about Harden and why he didn’t go to Florida, and a lot of speculations are circling around the internet. Still, after D’Antoni’s statement, the Rockets’ fanbase is a bit less concerned.
Houston has 40 wins and 24 defeats, which ties them at the place No.5 in the West. Utah Jazz is in front of them with one game advantage, while Denver sits third with two and a half games edge.
D’Antoni and the guys are starting the campaign against the Dallas Mavericks on August 1, then meet the Milwaukee Bucks, Portland, LA Lakers, Kings, Spurs, Pacers and the Philadelphia 76ers in the end.
