Shams: Clippers' Russell Westbrook Could Make Return from Hand Injury vs. Pacers

After missing nearly a month of action due to surgery on his left hand, Los Angeles Clippers point guard Russell Westbrook could be back on the court this week, per The Athletic and Stadium's Shams Charania.

"I'm told the hope is he is going to be back this week, could be tonight against the Pacers," Charania said on Run It Back. "We'll see if Russell Westbrook will be back tonight, but he's close. He's going to be back at some point this week."

Westbrook fractured his hand on March 1 against the Washington Wizards and underwent surgery a few days later.

Westbrook is putting up 11.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game in 22.6 minutes per game off the bench this season.

Amid Westbrook's absence, the Clippers have gone 6-6 after starting the new year strong. Los Angeles still sits in fourth place in the West, and having Westbrook back on the court should help it get out of its recent skid to hold that position.

Westbrook has taken on a new role coming off the bench for the Clippers this season, but he has thrived in that role. While his numbers have dropped from his time as a starter, he provides a much-needed spark on both ends of the floor for Los Angeles when he checks in.

Getting back on the court before the playoffs would be a good opportunity for Westbrook to get back in form after missing several weeks. Los Angeles is looking to get over the hump and win its first title this season, and it appears to have all the makings of a title contender.

With the trio of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and James Harden clicking and Westbrook providing off the bench, it wouldn't be a surprise to see the Clippers put together a deep run this postseason.