Serge Ibaka (knee) is not close to returning, The Oklahoman's Anthony Slater reports.

Ibaka (knee) is not close to returning, The Oklahoman's Anthony Slater reports.

Analysis:

After his knee surgery in March, Ibaka expressed optimism that he'd return prior to the original 4-to-6 week timetable handed down by the team, but at this point he may not be ready before the end of the regular season. Of course, the "not close" designation makes it difficult to speculate, but with only four games remaining, the clock is ticking for Ibaka to return. Heading into Wednesday night, the Thunder trail the Pelicans, who face the Grizzlies on Wednesday, by 0.5 games for the final playoff spot in the West.