The Houston Rockets came roaring out of the gates to take a 2-0 lead on the Oklahoma City Thunder despite Russell Westbrook being out with an injury.
It looked as if the Rockets star player would get some much-needed rest, but the Thunder had other plans and tied the series at two.
Westbrook now looks poised to return and ready for the challenge.
The Rockets who suffered some setbacks this year not exceeding expectations have a fresh start in the bubble.
The team was designed to win a championship this season.
To make that happen they need Westbrook in the lineup, as James Harden has looked tired the last few games.
The league is as open as ever and this Rockets team is a contender when they’re healthy and clicking.
Houston shoots a lot of 3-pointers and Westbrook’s return will lead to more open attempts as he looks to drive the lane.
“He’ll go through practice today, and if things are normal, we expect him to be ready to go,” Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni said before Friday’s practice. “I’m sure he’ll have time restraints. We have not talked about that at all, and that won’t be discussed until tomorrow.
Westbrook never takes time restrictions very well, always playing 100% on every play for every second of the game.
Chances are he will be turned loose come game time and when things tighten up, which should make for an interesting finish to this great series.
Game 5 is Saturday.