UPDATE: The NBA has rescinded this technical foul, allowing Westbrook to play Monday in Portland. What a huge break for the Thunder.
Russell Westbrook scores 54, avoided suspension that nearly killed OKC’s playoff hopes
It was a dramatic night in Indiana.
Via FOX Sports Indiana
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
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A perfect storm formed in Indiana when the Oklahoma City Thunder took on the Pacers, and the end result could be a season left in tatters. Oklahoma City lost despite a 54-point game from Russell Westbrook, which leaves its playoff hopes on the brink of vanishing. The Pelicans lost to Houston, but things remain up in the air.
If that scenario didn't make matters bad enough, the Thunder could be without Westbrook for a critical Monday night game against the Portland Trail Blazers after a controversial technical foul was called in the fourth quarter. It was his 16th of the season, and will cost Westbrook a game if the call isn't rescinded by the league.
Kevin Durant was understandably angry at the foul.
That's some bullshit
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) April 13, 2015 Westbrook put the Thunder on his back against the Pacers. He took 43 shots from the field compared to a total of 51 from the rest of his team, and he scored over half of their points. Despite his shot party, Westbrook still managed to dish out nine assists and grab eight rebounds.
It was a wholly remarkable game from the Thunder star, but it might all be for naught if that technical foul sidelines him on Monday. Early reports indicate it may be overturned, but either way it’s a critical moment in the NBA season.
Scott Brooks said he's "fairly confident" Russell Westbrook's 16th technical will get rescinded.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 13, 2015
The Pacers' win moves Indiana into a tie for the eighth spot in the East along with Brooklyn, though the Nets hold the tiebreaker should the season finish with them locked at No. 8.
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