Russell Westbrook historically dominant in return to Thunder

So, uhh, Russell Westbrook is back.

Westbrook returned to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday following a 14-game absence due to a fractured right hand. While he played with a brace on the hand, there was very little to suggest he's not 100 percent.

Just in case any Thunder fans were worried, or the New York Knicks were sleeping on him, Westbrook emphatically announced his return just two minutes into the game.

That came after he assisted on each of the team's first three baskets, and the rest of his 24 minutes unfolded much like the first two. Westbrook finished with 32 points on 12-of-17 shooting in the 105-78 victory, adding seven rebounds and eight assists for good measure. Again, 32 points, seven rebounds and eight assists in 24 minutes.

That makes Westbrook the first player since the advent of the shot clock to score 32 points with eight assists in 24 minutes or fewer.

The Thunder are surely thrilled to have their point guard back, and with Kevin Durant practicing, things are looking up. Friday's win moves the Thunder to 5-12, not great but still within reasonable striking distance of the 48 wins or so it may take to qualify for the playoffs in the Western Conference.

"(The win) gives us a sense of confidence and urgency to come out every night and take care of business," Westbrook said after the game.

He didn't hear no bell, basically.