The Houston Rockets were doing quite well for themselves when the playoffs began. They were leading with 2-0 in the series against Oklahoma City Thunder until Thunder actually woke up to realize that their dream of reaching the playoff finals was slipping away. It looks like the Rockets are starting to feel the absence of Russell Westbrook. Westbrook is one of the fiercest Rockets players who has been out for quite a few games because of an injury.

However, he is expected to return for game 5 which can be extremely beneficial for the Rockets’ fate.

Is Russell all set to be back?

After two consecutive losses, the Rockets will be hoping to get back in the crucial fifth game. Their star point guard’s probable return could be a huge step up for the team. He has not played in the playoff series so far and is listed as a game-time decision for Game 5.

“Houston’s Russell Westbrook is expected to test his strained quadriceps on the court prior to Game 5 vs. Oklahoma City today and make a game-time decision on returning, sources tell ESPN,” posted NBA Insider, Adrian Wojnarowski.

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This came as a huge surprise because he was initially listed out. This ray of hope could give the boost the Rockets really need to get back their A-Game. When they had the 2-0 lead, there seemed like there was nothing to worry about and there was no need to rush Westbrook’s return. However, they have started to feel a sense of urgency to stay alive in the series.

He is desperately needed to lessen the offensive load on Eric Gordon and James Harden. Westbrook averaged 27.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game during the regular season for Houston.

What lies ahead for the Houston Rockets?

What makes the return more interesting is that he will be playing his former team and the person he was traded with, Chris Paul. His determination to prove himself will be sky high and that’s exactly what the Houston Rockets will be looking for.

This game will depend on whether he returns or not. If he does, the Rockets have an easy chance of walking away as winners of round one. If he doesn’t, the Rockets will require all the luck in the world and monstrous performances from James Harden and Eric Gordon to fill that void.